(Photo by Vasilisa Nesterenko)

By Vasilisa Nesterenko | Staff Writer

Owen Chan is a second-year student who came from China two years ago. He initially majored in Aeronautics and Maintenance Technology (AMT), but decided to pursue a substitute major in English as a Second Language Teaching while he is on the waiting list for several required classes. Chan plans to graduate with a language degree if he does not re-enroll in his original program within a year.

Pursuing two majors simultaneously allows Chan to stay flexible with his future plans. After completing the AMT program, he hopes to work at airports around the world or return to his native China, where there is a shortage of airplane mechanics. However, if that path does not work out, Chan is excited about becoming an English teacher and traveling through his profession.

Chan appreciates his academic experience at both campuses where he has taken classes, Kapiʻolani Community College and Honolulu Community College. One of his favorite aspects of college life is the supportive student community.

“I didn’t even know what I was expecting from my first year of college, but I’m glad I had a lot of people who could help me out,” Chan said. “Many of my classmates are very generous and kind. We get along pretty well when working on new projects.”