Originally from the small village of Vailoa on the island of Savai'i, Samoa, Sete Aulai grew up in a Christian home in Carson, Calif. Located on the southwest border of Compton in Los Angeles County, Carson had its share of problems with gangs, drugs and violence. Growing up in the area shaped Aulai, and like the streets of Carson, he became tough. That toughness, along with exceptional physical strength, made Aulai a natural football player.

By the time he reached high school, Aulai was performing well on the football field and in the classroom, garnering numerous accolades in the process. Coaches from the top football programs on the West Coast were soon aware of the young offensive lineman. The recruiting attention increased as Aulai approached his senior season.