Beginning this fall, Hawaiʻi Community College’s Kō Education Center in Honokaʻa will offer a new pathway for North Hawaiʻi students to begin college close to home through the “First Year Here at Kō” program.
The program allows students to complete their first year of general education courses locally through face-to-face morning classes designed to support students balancing academics, work, family, and community commitments. The program also gives students an opportunity to explore future academic and career pathways while completing transferable general education coursework.
By offering full-time enrollment options locally, the program aims to help students build confidence, form meaningful relationships with classmates and instructors, and receive the support needed during the critical first year of college.
The pilot program is designed to serve up to 20 students during its first year. After completing their first year at Kō, students may continue their studies at Hawaiʻi Community College’s Manono campus in Hilo or the Pālamanui campus in Kona, depending on their academic program and personal circumstances.