June is the month for grads and dads. It’s also the beginning of summer and countless vacations. Be safe and be smart when visiting unfamiliar locales, and follow all signage and rules. Make memories and don’t be a statistic.
Congratulations to all high school students who graduated in Hawaii this year. Your future looks bright; however, you must look at further education to improve yourself.
This does not automatically mean one must go to college, however. Enrollment in a community college in Hawaii is a great deal and an opportunity that is not as expensive as a four-year university.
A four-year college is also a route many will take, and this moment in the life of young adults should be a time of being open-minded, absorbing all knowledge available, and learning from those one values or appreciates.
Another option is a trade school, apprenticeships, or a union-affiliated opportunity to grow and learn. Some people like to work with their hands and create or build, and this route can be inexpensive or more within some individuals’ budgets.
There are many choices available such as construction-related, culinary, transportation jobs, health industry, technology, and retail to name a few. Take the time to research and see what interests are available.
The military is another place many young adults consider, and this could be a landing spot if one is still unsure what he or she wants to do in life.
The military has many career paths where one can learn and excel, and the cost is more or less free. Discipline and commitment are needed to do well, but the benefits are endless, especially if one stays at least 20 years and earns a pension. Shorter stints are possible to assist someone in finding his or her path in life.
The popular GI Bill is offered to service members and veterans who may want to go to college or other training programs after serving our country. I have family members and friends who have benefited from the GI Bill, and this continues to be one of our government’s major success stories.
Entering the immediate workforce is an option for some, and for young adults, don’t be rushed or pressured to choose your final career path. There are so many opportunities available, and one may need some time to see what is out there.
It’s important to see where a business or organization is going in terms of growth, what its goals or objectives are, how one can grow and advance, and if there is long-term stability.
Working for the county, state, or federal government is a viable option, and if one is able to get a civil service job, this path can turn into a long-term opportunity.
A civil service test is required, but if one is selected, the benefits can be very attractive, especially in Hawaii. Appointed government positions may not have the protections of a civil service job, but they can help get one’s foot in the door and build one’s resume.
Our state and nation have labor shortages in many areas and industries so it’s okay to be picky and cautious. If one wants to wait, travel, or search for opportunities, go ahead as long as one is not a burden to friends or family.
Volunteering is one way to meet people, engage in the community, stay involved, and be productive. Volunteering is a way of giving back or lending a hand, and it can sometimes also lead to employment or job offers.
Organizations like the Jaycees, Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, and countless others are another avenue to develop, network, and grow.
Living in Hawaii is not cheap or inexpensive, and earning a decent wage should be a goal for many. Learning about financial management and personal budgeting should also be on one’s list of things to do.
Always be willing to talk to people, ask questions, seek advice, and learn from others’ experiences. Information is available in many formats.
June is also the month to celebrate fathers, living and deceased. My father passed away in 2024, and I miss him every day.
Victoriano Dungca Espero was a humble man with great dreams, and I owe everything in my life to him. His journey to leave the Philippines and join the US Navy was a life-changing decision for him, but it was a wise choice that our family is forever grateful for.
The pressure of being a dad and breadwinner is not to be taken lightly, and I know I speak for many when I say THANK YOU, Dad, for all you have done to make our lives better and easier. We acknowledge your sacrifices and honor you this month and all months of the year.
Happy Father’s Day to all dads and father-figures! You are loved and cherished.
WILL ESPERO retired from the Hawaii legislature after serving 19 years in the state House of Representatives and state Senate. He is currently a novelist, poet, and supporter of the arts. Lingering Thoughts provides a glimpse of his perspective on current events and issues.
About Author
+ There are no comments
Add yours