Kaahu Alo's TRiO SSS Success Story

As a transfer assistant coordinator at Windward Community College and a former member of the TRIO SSS program at Windward Community College I feel compelled to write your office to share how this program is beneficial to the campus and the windward communities. I first joined TRIO as a participant in 2010 where I was able to receive academic advisement, tutoring services, and financial assistance. For a non-traditional student, husband and father there are often many barriers and challenges that can hinder ones progression. I found a sense of belonging at TRiO because there were many others students who were in my same situation. Struggling local parents returning to school, living off of financial aid and wondering if they are cut out for the academic world. There is a strong presence of Native Hawaiian students who come from disadvantage backgrounds who help build a unique culture and community at WCC’s TRiO.

The TRiO program has given me the learning environment I need to be successful in college. When I first joined TRiO I felt that I was part of group that who expecting me to succeed and they would support me every step of the way. I like many took full advantage of the many services provided from the free computer lab to the tutoring. As the sole provider of my family I was able to gain financial advisement that helped me get scholarships, grants and employment at TRiO.

TRiO SSS played a key role in allowing me to further my educational goals, and transfer to a 4year university. After leaving WCC I transferred to Hawaii Pacific University. I recently received a bachelor’s degree in communications from HPU and I am currently enrolled in their MACOM program.  Even after I left WCC I was still welcomed at TRiO and given the same assistance and encouragement.

            The support and the bonds that are created here surpass any typical academic service on any campus. At TRIO the director knows and works directly with each individual and genuinely cares for each of the participants. I strongly feel that the TRiO program at Windward Community College has helped me to secure a better future for my family and community. I truly feel indebted to TRiO for providing me with the support I needed in school and life. Had it not been for TRiO I know that I would not be where I am today.

Sincerely,

Kaahu Alo

Windward Community College

Hulili Transfer Assistant Coordinator

UPDATE as of Spring 2016 

Kaahu graduated with her AA in Liberal Arts at the end of the Fall 2011 semester,  his Bachelor's in Communications from Hawaii Pacific University at the end of the Fall 2012, and his Master's in Communication from Hawaii Pacific University  at the end of the Spring 2014 semester. He is currently employed at Windward Community College as a counselor and student life coordinator and a speech lecturer.