Applying for Hilo University on Big Island of Hawaii for marine biology...Help?

I'm applying to University of Hilo in Hawaii for the fall 2010 semester..I'm a senior; I graduate in June...but I'm a resident of (upstate) New York. I want to study marine biology ( and NY colleges aren't exactly ideal for oceanic studies) and I instantly thought of Hawaii as the best option..my family heritage and culture is Hawaiian, which is why I feel a connection to the islands and why I would not want to just go to Florida or any other mainland state. I visited Oahu 3 yrs ago to visit my relatives, but I heard each island is a completely unique experience. My questions are: Is the Big Island more/less expensive than Oahu (housing-wise)? Does anyone have any personal experience or advice about the university or the island or things to do there? Should I get a dorm or try and gain residency by living in an apt? I really think it'd be an experience, but I'm going to be far from home and I want it to be worth it..my mom said she would move there with me if I went, which is why I want to know about housing costs/cost of living..I'm applying for scholarships and stuff, but I don't want to be paying back loans for the rest of my life either...I've been doing my research but there's different results every time, so I figured I'd give it a go on here..tell me what you think! Maybe I'm crazy for wanting and expecting to go to college so far away since I'm not exactly rich..I'm just not sure how to go about it and I want to make it happen...any advice is appreciated!