Yes, we believe Honolulu Community College (HonCC) is one of the top community colleges in the nation! But, don’t just take it from us. Hear what some of our students have to say.
Karen Ho
Cosmetology
“My advice to new students is to try new things. I found my passion, and every day I am working harder and harder to reach my goals. Many people spend their entire life trying to find their passion, and some people don’t ever discover what it is I’m doing something I love doing, and I’m so grateful for it.”
Kaeo Kapana
Fire Science
“I felt like I was stuck and didn’t see myself going anywhere, so I decided to go back to school to learn and pursue my dream job. A career that ensures the safety of the public is something that I could really see myself doing, since I was always raised to give rather than receive. That sense of serving and selflessness is the main concept of the fire department, so it really resonated with me.”
Richard Keahi Kahler
MELE Audio Engineer / Hawaiian Studies
“After receiving my first Associate’s Degree, I decided to continue my education because of the great faculty and staff that I ended up growing so close to. I’d tell new students, find your support system, like I did! Stay connected to the people who will help you succeed! It was my teachers, community, family and friends who inspire me, as well as this place I call home, Hawai‘i, which encourages me to learn about my culture, live in love, and pursue life to its fullest potential.”
Ka‘ano‘i Akaka
Fashion Technology
“After earning a Bachelor’s Degree from UH Mānoa, I went into teaching. But, my childhood dream was to become a fashion designer, so I enrolled in the Fashion Technology program at HonCC. I loved that the classes at HonCC were small, hands-on, and provided lots of technical training using the latest tools and equipment. The instructors were great; very helpful, kind, patient, and I still keep in touch with many of them. And, today, I have my own fashion design company. HonCC helped to make my dream come true.”
Micah Kaneshiro
Electrical Installation & Maintenance Technology
“I wanted to do similar work as my dad, so I chose electrical work. He’s a carpenter and now a contractor, and with my electrician skills I can be there whenever he needs help! I’d tell new students to seek opportunities everywhere! Become an apprentice at some smaller company, really read the books, take any work opportunities you can, and always be open to learning more.”
Jackson Waldhoff
MELE Audio Engineer
“I was afraid to follow my dream, because I knew nothing about the music industry. I didn’t have any skills, and everyone told me that a career in music isn’t a “real job.” Eventually, I got tired of following the “safe route” and trying so hard and pursuing a major and subject I wasn’t passionate about! I decided to pursue what I am passionate about, which is music. When I did that, all the opportunities started opening up.”
