Students Learn Hands-on at Future Fest

Normally, high school students operating backhoes on the school’s front lawn would be cause for alarm. However, last Wednesday it was all part of Molokai High School’s Future Fest, a day-long sampling of potential colleges and careers for MHS students.

According to Lisa Takata, representatives from over 12 colleges and universities from both Hawaii and the mainland attended the Fest, answering students’ questions on everything from possible majors to athletic scholarships.

Students chatted with university representatives at Future Fest. Photo by Colleen Uechi.

“Most of them talked about what they need to do to come to school,” said Tammy Fonoimoana, a financial aid counselor at Brigham Young University-Hawaii.  “… A lot of questions about sports. There’s a lot of athletes here that are looking to get scholarships and look for ways to help fund their schooling.”

Professionals from over 30 different occupations, including over 20 MHS alumni, also shared job experiences with students and offered them hands-on experience. Students were able to interact with firefighters, tattoo artists, a forensic scientist and more.

Senior Codi Kamakana, who hopes to be a mechanic in the future, said he learned a lot and most enjoyed getting to try out the tractor and other heavy operating equipment.

Classmate Kahanu Alcon said it prompted him to consider continuing his education.

“Before I came to this I never really [thought] about college,” said Alcon.

The event also featured special musical performances from Hawaii-based artist Kimie Miner and Molokai band Jus Cuz.