By Cameron Enomoto | Staff Writer

Aaron Tolentino is an 18-year-old student who is a first-year student at Kapiʻolani Community College. He was born and raised in Hawaiʻi, and for the majority of his life he lived in Kalihi. Tolentino is currently working towards a degree in Music Education after being inspired by his past teachers to pursue a career in this field. He is able to play multiple percussions instruments and he is also learning how to play the violin and piano.

“I chose KCC because it is affordable and close to home,” said Tolentino. “I also figured that no matter what school you go to, a two-year degree is a two-year degree and they all mean the same thing, so why waste money on a fancy university?”  

Upon completion of his degree, Tolentino plans to transfer to a four-year university to continue his education. Outside of practiicing music, Tolentino is an avid gamer and a huge “Pokémon” fan. The game he plays the most is “League of Legends,” though he also plays first-person shooter games like “Valorant” and “Overwatch.” He is particularly excited about the upcoming release of “Pokémon: Brilliant Diamond” and “Shining Pearl,” as they are remakes of games released in 2008-2009.

An interesting fact about him is that he marched in the Parade of Roses in Pasadena, California two years in a row. Despite the rules specifially stating that consecutive participation is not allowed, his high school was asked to participate twice.