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By Vasilisa Nesterenko | Staff Writer

Word on the Street: What are your new year’s resolutions?

Alex Amaya
Age: 19
Hometown: Guatemala
Major: Liberal Arts

“This year I want to focus more on my hobbies. … I work with my friends and we make music, films and other stuff.”

Brayden Suzuki
Age: 23
Hometown: Kapolei, Oʻahu
Major: Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering

“I’m aspiring to be a doctor, so [my resolution is to] study for the MCAT, finish my perquisites, and get more clinical experience. ”

Brien Haun
Age: 40
Hometown: Florida
Major: PhD in Cell & Molecular Biology

“I work for the medical school, John A. Burns School of Medicine. I’m a postdoctoral researcher there in the cell and molecular research department. I work here [at KCC] running a lab and helping with a class, but the research lab is my main focus. So my goal this year is to secure research funding, support my professional growth at UH, and increase opportunities for students in STEM.”

Janel Alexander
Age: 21
Hometown: Kauaʻi
Major: Liberal Arts

“My plan for 2026 is to get an associate degree. I really want to get through and achieve my goal, my potentials and see if that’s really what I’m in for. I’m still exploring. ”

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Sophia Ka
Age: 13
Hometown: Maui
Major: General Ed classes

“[My resolution is to] find out what I really want to major in, because I don’t have a major yet. I’m still observing classes, trying to find something I actually enjoy. And depending on what it is, maybe I can get into a good school and have a career in the future.”