Kauaʻi Community College hosted its first career fair in more than a decade on April 2, with more than 160 students attending. The event highlighted a strong interest in career development and community connection, featuring a curated group of employers from diverse Kauaʻi industries. Faculty connected students directly with industry professionals, and on-the-spot interviews were conducted, offering attendees a variety of full-time, part-time, and internship opportunities.
First-year culinary student Lilianna Afro-Lopez, who hopes to pursue a back-of-house role in the hospitality industry after graduation, appreciated the supportive, on-campus setting.
“There are a couple of hotels needing help here, and it¡¯s good to get this experience,” Afro-Lopez said. “Having a career fair on campus is especially helpful for those who are looking for jobs. There are a lot of options.”
‘It¡¯s about who you know’
Malia Hoʻokano, a distance education student studying business through the University of Â鶹´«Ã½–West Oʻahu while working at Kauaʻi CC as a financial aid student employee, said the event offered valuable networking.
“This is a great opportunity for those who don¡¯t have much experience in the workforce, and it¡¯s good to make connections with people in your community,” Hoʻokano said. “When the time comes to enter the workforce, students will have already met some people—and that¡¯s kind of how it is on Kauaʻi. It¡¯s about who you know.”
Career Counselor Melissa Henry noted that the strong turnout underscored the importance of creating more opportunities for students, graduates and the community to build connections with local employers.
“While our primary focus was on student success, it was wonderful to open our doors to the public,” Henry said. “We look forward to inviting even more of our community to join us, extending the [priority access hour for students] and growing this into a successful annual tradition.”
