Advice for a soon-to-be community college student in Hilo, Hawaii?

Aloha! I'm a high schooler in Hilo, Hawaii and I'll likely be going to community college once I graduate. I haven't decided which one yet. Anyone here from Hilo? What are your experiences like with the community colleges around here? Any advice to give?

Congratulations on your upcoming graduation and making the decision to continue your studies at a community college! It's a commendable action to invest in your future education. As someone who helps guide students through the process, here are a few tips:

1. Consider your long-term plans: Some students enter community college with the goal of transferring to a four-year institution, while others aim to learn technical skills for immediate employment. Knowing what you hope to get out of your experience can help guide the rest of your decisions.

2. Explore your options: There are two community colleges in close proximity to Hilo, Windward Community College and Hawaii Community College. Both are part of the University of Hawaii System and offer a variety of programs. Visit their websites, as well as use online resources to understand the unique aspects of each. CollegeVine has tools that can provide detailed insights about different colleges, courses, and compare various factors. All this can give you a fair idea about where you'd prefer to apply and eventually attend.

3. Seek counseling: Once you've enrolled, utilize the academic counselors. They can guide you in course selection and ensure that you're fulfilling your program requirements, whether you plan to graduate with an associate's degree or you're aiming to transfer to a four-year college down the line.

4. Utilize resources: Most community colleges offer numerous resources, from career counseling to tutoring centers. Familiarizing yourself with these resources early on can set you up for success.

5. Get involved: Like any college, community colleges also offer extracurricular activities. Joining a club or organization not only allows you to make friends but also offers opportunities to build leadership skills and engage with the community, all of which can enrich your overall college experience.

6. Be prepared for an adjustment period: Transition from high school to college, even a community college, can be challenging. It involves added responsibility and demands more self-motivation. Try establishing a regular study routine and stay organized with your assignments, so you're not overwhelmed.

While I'm unable to provide personal experiences from community colleges in Hilo, keeping these pieces of advice in mind can help you make the most out of your community college journey. Grounded with this information and backed with determination and curiosity, you can shape your college years to be enlightening and rewarding. Good luck with your journey!