Where Are They Going? Being Comfortable with the Uncomfortable (Hospitality & Tourism) Artwork

Kuilei Courageous Conversations

Kapi‘olani Community College is an extremely special place because we are named after Queen Julia Na-pela-kapu-o-Kakaʻe Kapi‘olani. The Queenʻs motto is Kūlia i ka Nu’u, Strive for your Highest, which can be felt through the words in our podcast. Kuilei Courageous Conversations hosted by Kapi‘olani Community College’s Kuilei Outreach Program is a series of talks and interviews around students success through the lens of our students, staff, and faculty. We will cover topics around our outstanding community of students and employees, the application process, how to finance college, and other exciting highlights that make Kapi‘olani Community College the place to Kūlia i ka nuʻu, strive for your highest. We truly appreciate the opportunity to share what we have to offer. Check us out at www.kapiolani.hawaii.edu. Mahalo.

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Kuilei Courageous Conversations

Where Are They Going? Being Comfortable with the Uncomfortable (Hospitality & Tourism)

October 17, 2023 • Kapi‘olani Community College | Kuilei Outreach Program • Season 9 • Episode 3

The Kuilei Outreach Program Team is Alfie and Sheldon (me). When we are out in the community, it is quite common to hear folks say "I am not college ready" or "I don't think college is for me." What they don't realize is EVERYONE has what it takes to be successful.

In this episode we have Jim Gabriel Vergara, Lunalilo Scholar and Farrington HS graduate who is about to complete his Associate Degrees...yes, TWO DEGREES, in Hospitality & Tourism. Listen to how this young man navigated through adversity and managed to work, attend school full-time, and do community service, while being an extremely successful student.

Hear how his words of wisdom of "being comfortable with the uncomfortable" paved the way for his growth as a person, student, and a professional.

Please enjoy and share widely!