Author: Katlin Cilliers

Yasuharu Kagami is a 23-year-old Liberal Arts major at KCC. Kagami is a graduate student who is originally from Tokyo, Japan. He already has a bachelor's in law from University of Keio in Tokyo. While he was at University of Keio, Kagami joined the track and field team along with helping to manage "Hakone Ekiden", a Japanese relay race held by universities every year. Kagami is currently attending KCC because of how cheap the tuition is and to gain some needed credits for his associate's diploma. "You know, UH Mānoa and Japan have tuition that's way more expensive than here [KCC]," he said. "I'm just trying to save some money before I transfer into another university." After receiving his associate's degree in Liberal Arts from KCC, Kagami wishes to transfer into UH Mānoa's graduate school next year to obtain a master's degree in accounting. He is currently self-studying for his accounting USCPA exam. Kagami grew up in a business-like environment, so he wishes to become a businessman himself. He wishes to involve himself in business transactions between the U.S. and Japan which will make people happy. Kagami's main dream in life is to own his own business when he gets older. "My father and my grandfather both owned a business back in Japan," he said. "I respect my father and my grandfather ... [and] I want to own my own business company. I want to follow in their footsteps." For other students or people who wish to follow his path, Kagami gives some important advice. He believes that a strong work ethic and that studying hard can propel you forward in life. Additionally, for international students, Kagami stresses the importance of learning English to communicate with others efficiently in financial situations. "Just keep studying," Kagami said. "Learn your business, accounting, and English skills. These things are very important for the future."