University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu students can have high-quality headshots taken of them, receive advice for career preparedness, and enjoy snacks and refreshments — all at Pop-up Portraits, an event happening from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, at the Student Life Center in C-214.
Pop-up Portraits is presented by the UH West O‘ahu Student Activity Fee Board (SAFB) and organized by student and SAFB event coordinator Bryleigh Ballesteros.
“It is never too early to start looking into our futures and this event is aimed at helping students prepare for career success,” Ballesteros said. “Whether you’re job searching for post-grad, looking for a summer internship, or applying to part-time jobs, Pop-up Portraits is here to give tips, resources, and even freebies for your next interview.”
The first 20 students to RSVP will receive a free Interview Prep Kit and all attendees will have an opportunity to play “spin the wheel” to win prizes, while supplies last.
“Some of the freebies and items in the free Interview Prep Kit are mini lint rollers, compact mirrors, combs, and stain-remover wipes,” Ballesteros said. “These are all things that you can keep in your bag or car for on the go.”
The headshots, which organizers suggest can be used to update your LinkedIn or Lamakū profile pictures, will be taken by Ballesteros, who is an avid photographer. Ballesteros said her photography journey started in middle school, when she took her first digital media class and realized her passion for it.
“In high school, I began doing concert and event photography, which led to an internship that allowed me to gain lots of experience,” she said. “In these past few years, I have started taking more portrait-style photos of my own sorority.”
Pop-up Portraits is open to only UH West O‘ahu students with a validated student ID. A Google Form will be released on March 25 at 11 a.m. (when the event starts) for Distance Education students only, to sign up to receive career readiness resources; the first 20 responders will receive a free Interview Prep Kit.
Ballesteros, who came up with the idea for Pop-up Portraits, encourages all UH West O‘ahu students — no matter their major or class standing — to attend the event.
“I personally really enjoy visiting photo booths to take pictures with friends, which is where my idea stems from,” she said. “While brainstorming for this event, it reminded me of picture day that we used to have in elementary school.”
She continued, “However, I decided to put a unique twist and make it relevant for college students by focusing on a career themed approach. As a new member to SAFB, I wanted to create a unique event that benefits students beyond just the event itself.”
RSVP here for Pop-up Portraits; walk-ins are also welcome. For more information or questions, email safbwo@hawaii.edu.
This event is one of the “50 Acts of Pueo Pride” — events highlighted as part of the University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu’s 50th anniversary in 2026.
