Haven for students

Safety, the weather, cultural diversity and convenient transportation options are some of the reasons why Hawaii is a big draw for young people.

Hawaii typically comes to mind when you are thinking of a holiday, but it is also a good example of diversity and harmony in the United States - two traits which draw international students besides foreign visitors.

However, a recent survey of 250 institutions of higher education across the US by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers reported a nearly 40 percent decline in overall applications from international students seeking to study in the US.

Yet, despite the setback, Hawaii is still providing a draw for international students.

A survey by the US Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism and the Research and Economic Analysis Division, shows that Japan is the top country of origin for Hawaii's international students, while China comes in at third place.

Xiao Qingsong, a 10th-grade student at the Maui Preparatory Academy loves Hawaii.

Speaking about his experiences in Hawaii, he says: "With a better living environment, relatively clean air, and less pressure from my studies, I am pleased to be studying here."

Xiao, who recalls that he did not get enough time to play piano back home three years ago, says: "Now, I have more time to practice the piano, and I am making a lot of progress."

Moreover, Xiao has more choices when it comes to outdoor sports - like surfing - he says.

Scott Siegfried, the vice-president of External Affairs at the Mid-Pacific Institute, says around 6 percent of their students are international students, and the majority are from Asian countries.

"One reason why international students choose Hawaii is proximity," says Siegfried.