Aaron Medina-Plascencia shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Aaron, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity is a guiding principle in my life. I believe that a person’s integrity reveals their true values and shapes how they navigate the world. Honesty, paired with a steadfast commitment to one’s principles, serves as a clear indicator of genuine intentions. In my own life, I strive to be transparent and sincere with those around me while remaining true to my core values.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello readers,
My name is Aaron Medina-Plascencia. I am an architecture student and the president of a nonprofit chapter at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Much of my work is shaped by my experiences as a first-generation student in design school, navigating the challenges of living far from home, while also dedicating myself to giving back to the community and the island I am privileged to call home.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
The person who has taught me the most about the value of hard work is my mother. Throughout my life, I have watched her balance professional responsibilities while raising my brother and I, demonstrating unwavering dedication and perseverance. Her work ethic has been a guiding influence, inspiring me in my education and every project I pursue. She instilled in us the importance of striving for our goals and maintaining commitment even in challenging times. Through her example, I have learned what true dedication, resilience, and purpose look like; qualities that continue to shape who I am and the person I aspire to be.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
The thought of giving up is something I think almost everyone faces at some point. Whenever I’m working toward a goal, the possibility of failing is always there, and sometimes it feels really strong. I wouldn’t say I’ve ever actually wanted to give up, but it’s always in the back of my mind. Being a first-generation student in higher education, far from home, comes with challenges I’ve never experienced before. There are times when it feels like there isn’t much support or understanding. Those moments naturally bring up the thought of giving up. But facing them is also what builds resilience and keeps me pushing forward.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
One person whose ideas I really rely on is the Stoic philosopher, Marcus Aurelius. His thoughts on Stoicism help me stay aligned with my values and remind me of the kind of person I want to be. I especially enjoy his quote, “That which is not good for the swarm, neither is it good for the bee,” because it reminds me that my actions affect more than just myself. It reinforces my strong belief that we should strive to be selfless rather than selfish. Aurelius had a lot to say about leadership, but also about living honestly and finding contentment in life. I try to take his ideas and apply them in my own way—whether that’s in my architecture studies, or leading VolunteerAlly at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Thinking about his teachings helps me grow, not just as a student or a leader, but as a person trying to make a positive impact every day.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I believe in giving my very best effort, regardless of whether or not it is recognized by others. Anything associated with my name deserves my full commitment and attention to detail. As a student in the School of Architecture at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, I’ve learned that design requires not only creativity but also discipline, precision, and resilience.
Praise is meaningful—it uplifts, encourages, and reminds us that our work resonates with others. I would be lying if I said I never think about it. But what matters far more to me is the internal reward of knowing that I poured myself fully into something. This belief also shapes my role as president of VolunteerAlly at UH Mānoa. Leading a team of peers, organizing opportunities, and representing a mission larger than myself has taught me that impact isn’t always visible in the moment, but the effort still matters deeply. The knowledge that I gave it everything I could is its own form of validation. In many ways, that self-assurance is just as powerful, if not more enduring, than external recognition.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.aronmedina/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-plascencia
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
