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Alumni Success Stories
Jerri Abasial
Office Technology Management grad, 2009
“I would highly recommend Hawaii Technology Institute’s OTM class to someone who is in a time in their life where they don’t know what else they want to achieve or if they want to learn something new outside of their career. We learned a lot about ourselves from the inside as to who we really are and what we want to do and achieve in the next chapter of our lives. Having this experience has opened a whole new world for me.”
Stacie Medeiros
Pharmacy Technician grad, 2009
“I didn’t expect much to come from taking this program. Yet, in about four month’s time, I have learned about so many aspects of pharmacy, the human body and its systems, and myself. Before I decided to come here I seriously began doubting whether or not I had what it took to be someone great. Through this experience I now know that I always had the determination to graduate from college and accomplish something great in my lifetime.”
Penny Muller
Office Technology Management grad, 2009
“I realize this experience has allowed me the opportunity to grow even more and not take education for granted. From the everyday lessons at HTI to the workplace at Alu Like I am so grateful and so blessed. Thank you very much.”
Kaleo Gandauli
Office Technology Management grad, 2009
Medical Assisting Student 2009
“Through all my experiences, I have learned essential business and work ethics without which I would not be able to function effectively in any business office. I have taken valuable steps towards achieving my short-term goal of graduating from my Office Technology Management Program (OTM). I will be able to take all the experience and knowledge into the work field, and be a valuable asset in successful company’s work place. I feel I have gained valuable knowledge through all my teachings and guidance and I am well prepared to meet any expectations.”
Glannie Kodama
Pharmacy Technician grad, 2009
“More opportunities have become available to me because of this experience and certification. I feel confident about moving into an inpatient setting, should I choose that route; or changing my current outpatient employment…I also feel more secure in an ever-changing economic environment. I know I will be able to take care of myself and my family in a financial crisis. I alone make the decisions that direct my path in this life. Knowledge is the best weapon in this unsteady economic environment. I will strive to better myself.”
Sharel (Freeman) Feliciano - C.E.O. - Aloha International Employment, Inc.
Office Systems Operations grad, 1996
"I decided to attend Hawaii Computer Training Center (HCTC), now known as Hawaii Technology Institute, in 1996. After receiving my certificate of completion, I moved to Maui and put my entry-level admin skills to use. With all of the skills and knowledge I obtained at HTI, I continued to move up the ladder in every company that I worked at. Within a year, I was promoted to Job Placement Specialist, then Office Manager, and finally, Chief Executive Officer. I am truly grateful for all that Hawaii Technology Institute has done for me. With perseverance, hard work, and having excellent resources at hand (such as HTI), anything is possible.
Mahalo nui loa Hawaii Technology Institute."
David Lewis - Logistics Administrator
Office Technology grad, 2007
"Hawaii Technology Institute has helped me to attain the
knowledge and skills I need to acquire gainful employment. Moreover, HTI has also provided me with the
life skills and values that help me with everyday life. I now feel very responsible and am able to meet my financial
obligations to my family. I would
recommend this school to anyone who is looking to make some major life/career
changes. Being a student at HTI gave me the motivation to strive
to be a positive influence to people in my life. Gloria Gaines - Certified Medical Assistant
Spring 2008
The Hawaii Technology Institute (HTI) has allowed me
to explore the medical patient care industry and find out whether or not I
could make a career as a medical assistant.
As a Registered Medical Assistant working at the Waikiki Health
Center, I now realize
that HTI has, indeed, provided me with the basic structure and internal drive
to pursue a higher level of patient care, as either a respiratory therapist or
registered nurse.
Beverly Derit - Medical Receptionist
Office Technology Management grad, 2006
Medical Assistant Diploma Program current, 2008
"The staff was very welcoming
and honest when they said “you are in this for the long run, it won’t be easy
but if you come every day, work hard at what you want to gain from this program,
your life will change”. How ever big the project was, I could handle it. HTI, not only the program but also the people behind the
program, offered me encouragement."
Michelle Jenks - Patient Advocate
Office Systems Operations grad, 1996
"Hawaii Computer Training Center (HCTC), now known as Hawaii Technology Institute (HTI), changed my life. I gained a new sense of direction, learned new skills that gave me a competitive edge in my career and gained a deeper understanding about Ohana (Family).
I took a step forward by attending HTI. I acquired skills that enabled me to become an independent learner. All the instructors at HTI really believed in helping the students. It was inspiring to see how much they cared for each of us; they laughed when we laughed, cried when we cried, and did everything within their power to help us succeed.
I am currently working as a Patient Advocate. All the skills I’ve learned helped me acquire and maintain my position."
Darrah Lee - Fiscal Specialist III
Office Systems Operations grad, 1995
In January 1995, I entered Hawaii Computer Training Center, now known as Hawaii Technology Institute. I graduated in April 1995 in Office Systems Operations. With the knowledge and skills learned, along with the job placement assistance received, I was able to gain employment with ALU LIKE, Inc.’s Central Administrative Office as a Receptionist/Clerk Typist. A year later I was given the opportunity to move into the Fiscal Office as an Accounts Payables Clerk. It has been over 10 years since I first began my career with ALU LIKE, Inc. Currently I am with ALU LIKE, Inc. as a Specialist III in the Fiscal Department and am on my way to earning my AA in Accounting from the University of Phoenix.
Lehua Rowland – Pharmacy TechnicianPharmacy Technician grad, 2007“I came to HTI because I was looking for a career change. I was interested in medicine and I wanted to help people. But as a single mother of three, I never thought I would have the money or support to be able to go back to school. With financial aid from OHA I was able to enroll at HTI. My instructors were awesome and very knowledgeable. Anytime I needed help they were always there for me. Toward the completion of my program, HTI helped with my resume, interviewing skills and helped me find a job. I currently work as a pharmacy technician at Times Supermarket. If it wasn’t for HTI, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”Melissa Kolo – Medical Assistant Office Technology Management & Medical Assistant grad, 2006“When I first came to HTI I was computer illiterate. Over the next 14 weeks at school I was able to study, learn and grow in the world of technology. I am now a certified Microsoft Office Specialist in Word, Excel, and Access and I no longer fear the computer! After completing the Office Technology Management program, I enrolled in HTI’s Medical Assistant program. HTI helped me get an internship at Waikiki Health Center and that’s where I work today. I am grateful for HTI’s support and wouldn’t have been able to do it without them.”John Priestley – IT/Administrator Office Technology Management grad, 2007“Attending HTI was the best decision I have ever made in my life. I was a truck driver for more than 30 years when a medical condition forced me to stop driving and look for a new job. I knew I needed to learn how to do something else to support my wife and me. The first day I walked in to HTI, the warmth and aloha that greeted me was overwhelming. The welcome was so genuine; it was like I belonged there. HTI puts the quality of education for every student above all else. They even made the financial aid process easy and straightforward. Attending HTI has opened a lot of doors for me and I owe the entire staff more than I could ever pay them back.”Daphne Kahawai-Tom – State Improvement Grant Coordinator Current Medical Assistant student & Office Technology Management grad, 2006“When I came to HTI, I had been trying to finish my degree in Healthcare Administration but I was unable to get or grant or scholarship for college. A friend told me about HTI and that the school offered a Medical Assistant Diploma program. The program included office technology management classes that helped me get certified in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access. Developing those skills alone opened more doors for me and helped me land my current job at The Learning Disabilities Association of Hawaii. I am currently in the last semester of the MED program and I plan to make use of it on the Leeward Coast. Because I am part Hawaiian, I was able to attend HTI free of charge. Thank you, HTI, for all the mana’o kokua, malama, ho’iho’i that I received as a student here.”Puamana Crabbe – Hawaiian Studies TeacherOffice Technology Management grad, 2005“From the moment I walked in to HTI, I knew it was a special place. My future was in the hands of loving and professional instructors who made every effort to teach technical knowledge as well as life skills. Their enthusiasm inspired me to learn as much as possible and helped me achieve my dream of computer efficiency. Currently, I am pursuing my MBA in Business Management at the University of Phoenix.”
Doreen Spencer
Information Technology Management grad, 2003
"Aloha. I’m a proud 2003 graduate of Hawaii Technology Institute. HTI provided me the computer skills needed to pursue a career change. One hurdle I encountered was my lack of computer skills. HTI helped me solve this problem. The learning process was intense but personal interaction with the staff and students made it easier. One of the most rewarding and valuable experience was the two weeks of internship. This was my opportunity to use my computer knowledge in the real world. HTI Human Resources helped me find a really interesting career. Best of all, I directly support the CIO of Hawaii Pacific Health. It is hard work at times, but with the skills gained at HTI, I confidently meet all the challenges that are presented to me."Teri Savaiinaea
Information Technology Management grad, 2005
"My name is Teri Savaiinaea and I reside in Waianae, HI. I am a proud former student of Hawaii Technology Institute. At HTI I learned not just about computers but the fellowship, my Hawaiian culture and the teachers and staff who were very helpful and took the time to make sure we were all helping one another. I thank Papa Mika for all his love, compassion and wisdom that he bestowed upon all of us. Thanks to HTI and the knowledge I received there. It made a differnece in my life and the jobs I was so blessed with because of the knowledge, skills and hands on training." Jacquelyn A. Smith
Office Systems Operations grad, 1994
"Hawaii Computer Training Center's name was changed to Hawaii Technology Institute and they were starting a program called Women in Technology, which was later changed to Na Wahine O Ke Au Hou (Women of the New Era). Through this program I was able to receive Official Certifications,Microsoft Office User Specialist in Microsoft Office XP Word and Excel. The classes were very informative and of course, awesome instructors. I completed the course in 2002.
I always say, "It's NEVER TOO LATE to learn."Nerissa Rodrigues
Health Information Technology grad, 2011
"This experience has helped me see what it’s really like as a medical coder and what skills you need to succeed in this field. Once you put effort into achieving, you can take (any) opportunity as far as you want to go and specialize in any area you choose. Self discipline, hard work and determination are definitely key skills to have including attention to detail & maintaining accuracy. This opportunity, provided by HTI, has made me grateful that I am more than willing to rise above the next challenge." Diane Phillips
Health Information Technology grad, 2010
"I have learned that I KNOW that this is the field for me. Although this was an accelerated course, I feel that everything that was taught is important. I appreciated the time and efforts the instructors gave, to make sure we understood the principals, procedures, vocabulary, and the concept on what being a Medical Assistant entails."Emmie Tangonan
Medical Assisting Diploma grad, 2012
Office Technology Management grad, 2012
"This experience allowed me to develop and maintain knowledge and understanding of financial education and the experience of working with youths and families who want to buy homes. Even though my main focus is on the medical assisting field, being able to experience what Hawaii Community Assets has to offer me, will benefit about the importance of community and giving to under-served areas. I believed my confidence in assisting the staff of Hawaii Community Assets will allow me to gain the knowledge and learning experience in hopes to help Hawaii's community in home buyer education and in hopes to bring this kind of knowledge back home. It was through these times that I felt I was able to learn and grow the most in developing my skills over the course of this internship. And they all were most responsive to my requests and always made me feel like a full-time member of the team."Myles Manliguis
Medical Assisting Diploma grad, 2012
Office Technology Management grad, 2012
“This
internship has proven to be highly instrumental in providing me with an
insightful and comprehensive over-view of the office work and its
environment. Being on
the floor enabled me to see and experience
firsthand, exactly what the job entails and what I can realistically expect. Hawaii
Technology Institute taught me everything
they could. Familiarity and experience gained through this
internship will prove to be an invaluable asset in helping myself and anybody
else going through their internship, decide if it’s the right field for them.”
Malia Valencia-Kauhi
Office Technology Management grad, 2012
“My
experience helped
me to understand what it is like to work in a back office with duties involving
a computer.
During my experience I got to utilize the skills I gained at Hawaii Technology
Institute. I got to have hands on experience, which was really useful because it gave me a general idea of what
my future job may ask me to do. This experience has helped me to realize that although I love
interacting with customers/visitors, in person and on the phone, I also like
doing more general office duties. I enjoy a lot of responsibilities in my work duties and I prefer a
fast paced work environment. I am looking forward to utilizing the skills
I’ve gained at NHCS and HTI for my next job.”
Douglas Brown
Office Technology Management grad, 2012
“My
experience during this internship has helped me gain knowledge about this
career field by giving me hands on training in this field. I’ve
learned that patience really is a virtue in the office field. I’m not big on having
patience, but after this internship I think I’ve developed a good sense of
patience.
From the military, to security, to the
office field a lot has changed. New experiences,
new things to expect, my experience has broadened my mind
about the office field.”
Jessica Gines
Office Technology Management grad, 2011
Medical Assisting Diploma grad, 2012
“This internship has given me
an experience that I will remember and will help me in bettering my
future. Because knowing that I want to
get into the health field this is a step for me that I can bring forth, in
choosing a job, either a front office job at a clinic or hospital or after I
continue my education in completing the medical assistant program I could work
in the back office. In having this experience
and knowledge from my internship will give me a more positive attitude and
confidence in myself of knowing what will be expected towards getting into this
type of career.”
Kyllie Kalani
Office Technology Management grad, 2011
Medical Assisting Diploma grad, 2012
"I feel so blessed to have
this opportunity to work and complete my internship at American Para
Professionals Services because it is just an awesome atmosphere to be in. The employees are very welcoming and aren’t
afraid to have a little fun as long as work gets done. If I was to get an office job, I would
recommend APPS and they would be the first place I would apply with. They helped me every day if needed and they
are so supportive. I believe if given
the opportunity to work with the team, one could only succeed. The staffs as well as the owner are such
wonderful people. They only want the
best for others and they treat every customer that walks through the door with
kindness and compassion. I have never
seen this before with any other company.
Thanks to the awesome staff at APPS, I now have the confidence to do
office work without hesitating if I am doing it right. They taught me if you know what you are
doing, then trust in your skills and get the job done."
Jazlin Porter
Medical Assisting Diploma grad, 2012
"This experience taught
me many things, from front to back office. To become employed in this
position you need to be really independent, friendly, and don’t be afraid to
ask questions."
Laverne Kiaha
Office Technology Management grad, 2012
"This
experience has given me the opportunity to see how they
do extensive research on organizations and use the internet and database to
help with current and future events.
I was
involved with different aspects of the boycotting process. I was given information on the purpose of the
boycott to clarify and questions from the members. I had the
opportunity to deal with the public and provide information. It aslso gave me the opportunity to deal with
rejections in a positive way.
I attended (a) conference where I witnessed team work and collaboration preparing
the members of what’s to come. I sat in
a negotiation session that gave me a firsthand view of the process. I am glad that we were involved with the
different departments."
Kimie Akiu
Pharmacy Technology grad, 2011
"This whole
experience gave me a lot of knowledge I need to get into this career field. During our
class sessions at HTI, I learned a lot about the different drugs and how they
are used. I also learned how to convert all the different
measurements that are used within this field. During my
internship, I learned most. I took all the knowledge I gained
in the classroom and used them in the work settings. This was a very good opportunity for me. Thank you."
Travis Kunipo
Pharmacy Technology grad, 2011
"As a cashier I got to learn the different
drugs and ways that they work. This made
me realize that this could be a career for me. I was
noticed by my pharmacist and got moved up to a pharmacy technician. I would like to thank Long’s Drugs &
HTI, because without them I would have never had a career goal to achieve."
Jerica Tani-Higa
Pharmacy Technology grad, 2011
"From unit
dose, to reading, labeling, & filling prescriptions, (I was) forced to
pay closer attention to detail & realize that taking notice of my
surroundings is vital.
As I spent
my time at Tripler, I appreciate all my responsibilities. Communication is the key
to success in the pharmacy. Long hours,
determination, & hard work are put into taking care of public health."
Crystal Donato
Pharmacy Technology grad, 2011
"Going to
Hawaii Technology Institute for the Pharmacy Technician program has gave me a
lot of knowledge about this career. Before coming into the PTP, I thought the
career was all about putting pre-packed medications into a bag and giving it to
a patient. HTI taught me a wide range of everything that
deals with being a pharmacy technician, such as learning the brand and trade
names and what they treat, the side effects, and instructions to take the
medication. The calculations class always helped me threw
the times I had to work in the IV room. All the different ways of calculating
solutions was definitely used when I did my internship. All my
knowledge will be put to good use."
Candice Ah Nee
Office Technology Management grad, 2011
"It was awesome to find out that this challenge was harder than I thought. As classes started, I was so very new to all this, but my challenge was to win. The staff here is very compromising and they have the ability to share with the students (what they need to know) I would like to acknowledge all the staff for their teachings. I will use it to my ability to make this career prosper in my future."
Ariel Josue
Office Technology Management grad, 2012
"When the situation called for it I was able
to perform (by) myself. On a few occasions not everyone who said they
were able to attend to perform showed up so, I became a fill-in. I landed a part time job for a tourist shop and
actually enjoy it. This
experience has helped me gain more knowledge about business and technology. It has given me the ability to qualify for
many office and business type positions. I am very
thankful for the opportunity I was given and would like to do the same for
those who are in the same position as me or just would like to further their
education through an alternate route. "
Iclynn Kekoa-Asperilla
Office Technology Management grad, 2012
"During
internship I was able to find a lot of things out about myself. This field, to me, is a perfect
match for my practice because it will continue to give me the balance between
living ‘in’ this world, without being ‘of’ this world. Mahalo!"
Amanda Kepa
Pharmacy Technology grad, 2012
"This
experience for me was great. It was a
great experience for me and I enjoyed meeting and working with the people in
Tripler. I met new people every day and I
learned new things every day. I learned
that there were a lot of medications, some were refrigerated, some were
non-formulary, and some were for babies/children, some for chemotherapy, vials,
unit doses and much more. I learned that
it takes a lot of patience to get the job done because if you do something
wrong, an innocent person will suffer.
When I’m working, I’m in this zone where I am totally dedicated to my
work and I am completely focused. I double
check my work before turning it in, also triple check. But, this was a great experience and I’m glad
to have had this experience."
Keahi Williams
Pharmacy Technology grad, 2012
"Math class was surprisingly my favorite class.
(The instructor's) style of
teaching made it enjoyable to learn and retain what he went over. (He) was good at breaking it all down though.
That’s what made it easier to retain and
apply during my intern/externship. In a retail pharmacy I didn’t have a lot of
calculations but being able to go to the pharmacist and show him my work and
get feedback that way was great. The pharmacist informed me that it’s good that
I know this, if I were to be a lead technician and come across what I thought
was a mistake because of my knowledge and certification I would be able to
point it out and assist in preventing errors. You must have a willingness to learn in this
field because everything is constantly. |
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