Revisiting hinata's and taka's dr summer camp interactions made me realize something.
If Naegi's twisted version of himself is Komaeda, then is Ishimaru's Hinata?
I can't believe I didn't realize this sooner since their very similar in terms of their motivations and looks. Or probably cause I've seen very few comparisons between the two besides their awakened form and questionably homoerotic friendship with a certain someone.
For similarities, they're known for being hard workers and hot-headed, yet deeply insecure and wanted a connection or to belong. They even almost have the same angry expression. Both are burdened by huge debts due to talent-related reasons (taka's grandfather having a scandal and Hinata's family unable to afford the reserve course tuition fee mentioned in the anime i think). Their ambitions caused them to be alienated by their classmates.
Taka is much more clear with his objective which is to reward hard work and effort over talent or being a genius. He believes this is how true success is achieved as a result of his past. Taka even caught on how toxic the environment is in the Reserve Department, based on the drs interactions.
Meanwhile, Hinata thinks the fault is on him due to his lack of talent, resulting in his abysmal self-worth. He relies too much on society's or hope's peak's perception of success, which is talent. He hasn't mentioned what specific talent he wants and has much more vague motivations in achieving it until someone had to lead him (kamukura project).
Man if they had met earlier in canon they would've gotten along and probably prevent the tragedy AAAAAAHHHH. Hinata was easily convinced by Taka cause he felt seen and actually VALUED. I'm so giddy about these two.