Kalani freshman Steven Au is known for earning straight A’s, but he says academic perfection isn’t what matters most; instead, he prioritizes making connections and understanding his school work on a deeper level. He explains that building friendships and learning for himself are what keep him motivated.
“It’s not always about the grades,” Au says.
Au participates in several school clubs, including Mock Trial and Robotics, where he interacts with many different personalities.
“He’s understanding, funny, and a good teammate,” Robotics partner Tanner Nagata (9) says.
Managing his busy schedule has also been one of his biggest challenges. When he first came to Kalani, he created a strict daily timetable, but soon realized that motivation mattered more than the plan itself.
“It’s not a set table that will help you succeed; it’s more about if you’re motivated to do it,” Au says.
Au thinks ahead to his future goals and hopes to attend a top university; he is considering schools such as Georgia Tech and MIT.
“The most important thing is just doing what you can do to go to a good university,” Au says.
One of Au’s most notable academic achievements came in eighth grade when he and a teammate designed improved routes for TheBus as part of their science fair project. The project won an award at the Middle School Science Fair, and TheBus later dedicated one of its displays to showcase their award for the day.
Au says the experience was rewarding because he worked alongside people who were passionate about public transportation. He describes the opportunity as “very fulfilling.”
“He puts in real effort to get good results, but he still treats people with kindness,” Ryder Honda (9) says.
Despite Au’s accomplishments, he faces a demanding daily schedule. Living in Ewa Beach means waking up at 5 a.m., catching a ride at 5:40, arriving at school by 7:20, spending the day in class, and staying for Robotics practice until 7 p.m. Homework only begins once he gets home.
“I’m not able to do as much as I want, and it’s really tiring day in and day out,” Au says.
He continues to push toward his goals, believing that hard work will give him opportunities to explore the things he enjoys.
“I think having a good job and going to those good colleges allows me to experience things that I like to do, like cooking and traveling,” Au says. “It just gives me the ability, that’s why I want to do well in school.”
