Attention Class of 2025 High School Graduates!
Will you be attending one of the 10 University of Hawaiʻi campuses this fall?
If so, don’t miss the opportunity to join the Ke Ala Naʻauao First-Year Peer Mentoring Program!
Discover Your Path
Ke Ala Naʻauao—meaning “path to education/enlightenment”—honors Hawaiʻi’s host culture and empowers students to navigate their educational journeys. Through mentorship, workshops, and cultural connections, the KAN Program inspires individuals to honor their roots, embrace their light, and move boldly toward a brighter future.
What We Offer
Note: For the 2025–2026 academic year, the KAN Program will exclusively serve first-year college students enrolled at any of the 10 University of Hawaiʻi campuses. Outreach support for middle and high school students will be temporarily paused. Independent activities and workshops for students can be found under the Resources tab on this website.
- Middle and High School OutreachEmpower students with the tools to succeed academically and professionally through workshops led by college mentors. Workshop topics include Identity Building, College & Career Readiness, and Financial Literacy. Flexible workshops can fit into classroom schedules, after-school programs, or club activities.
- 12th Grade College Preparation
Comprehensive support to high school seniors throughout the college application process, including assistance with college applications and enrollment, creating a Federal Student (FSA) ID, and completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as FAFSA. - First-Year College SupportHelp new college students attending a University of Hawai‘i campus transition successfully into their academic environment with personalized mentorship, campus-specific insights, and reminders about important deadlines and events.
Let’s Work Together
The KAN Program offers tailored support to students at various stages of their academic journey while fostering cultural connection and personal growth. If you are interested in bringing this program to your school, organization, or community, let’s connect!
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What is the Ke Ala Na‘auao (KAN) Program?
Ke Ala Na‘auao (KAN) is a program that supports students through mentorship-led workshops, college readiness resources, and cultural connections to help them navigate their educational journeys.
Who does KAN serve?
KAN serves students from GEAR UP and Soar Higher schools. Teachers, school staff, and organizations can also participate by bringing KAN to their communities.
Note: For the 2025–2026 academic year, the KAN Program will exclusively serve first-year college students enrolled at any of the 10 University of Hawaiʻi campuses.
Who runs the KAN Program?
The KAN Program is led by college students known as KAN Mentors. These mentors are pursuing their own educational journeys and work closely with GEAR UP’s Peer Mentor Coordinator to provide the best support for students and partners.
For Teachers
Note: For the 2025–2026 academic year, the KAN Program will exclusively serve first-year college students enrolled at any of the 10 University of Hawaiʻi campuses. Outreach support for middle and high school students will be temporarily paused. Independent activities and workshops for students can be found under the Resources tab on this website.
What types of workshops do you offer?
KAN Mentors provide workshops on:
- Identity Building – Cultural connection & self-discovery
- College & Career Readiness – Exploring majors, career paths, and application guidance
- Financial Literacy – FAFSA, scholarships, budgeting, and student loans
How can I request a workshop for my class?
Fill out our Interest Form, select the workshop(s) you’re interested in, and our team will reach out to schedule and coordinate the details.
Can workshops be customized to fit my class schedule?
Yes! We offer flexible scheduling and can tailor workshops to fit classroom periods, after-school programs, or club meetings.
For Other School Staff, Administrators, & Organizations
Note: For the 2025–2026 academic year, the KAN Program will exclusively serve first-year college students enrolled at any of the 10 University of Hawaiʻi campuses. Outreach support for middle and high school students will be temporarily paused. Independent activities and workshops for students can be found under the Resources tab on this website.
How can my school or organization collaborate with KAN?
We welcome partnerships in many ways, including:
- Hosting KAN workshops for students
- Inviting KAN to participate in tabling events
- Coordinating college readiness sessions
- Exploring long-term collaborations
Can KAN participate in school-wide events?
Yes! We are open to participating in career fairs, college nights, cultural events, and other school activities.
How do we schedule an event with KAN?
Complete our Interest Form, and we will contact you to discuss logistics and finalize details.
For Students
How can KAN help me as a student?
KAN connects students with resources and guidance in:
- College & career planning
- FAFSA & financial aid
- Finding & applying for scholarships
- Transitioning from high school to college
Do I get a personal mentor through KAN?
Through the KAN First-Year Peer Mentoring Program, KAN offers one-on-one mentorship for first-year college students who graduated from GEAR UP or Soar Higher schools and are attending a University of Hawai‘i (UH) campus.
For other students, KAN provides resources and guidance to help them succeed.
Is there a cost to participate?
No! The KAN Program is completely free for students and schools.