A Glimpse into 91�� Life at Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy

Updated December 03, 2025

One of the most common questions families ask when exploring boarding school options is: What does a typical day look like for a student? Beyond academics, they want to understand how students live, learn, and grow within the community—how daily routines shape not only their education but also their independence, friendships, and character.

At , students like Regina and Marta offer personal insight into what life on campus truly feels like. Their days are filled with meaningful classroom experiences, hands-on electives, outdoor adventures, and tight-knit dorm life—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Big Island. These firsthand reflections offer prospective families a window into the heart of the HPA experience: a balance of challenge, creativity, connection, and joy.

Regina’s Story: A Journey of Resilience

After leaving high school at 17 to care for her child and cope with the sudden loss of her father, Regina put education on hold. Years later, inspired by her daughter and a desire to grow, she returned to earn her GED and eventually, her college degree.

Her journey wasn’t easy. She balanced studies with work and parenting, often doubting if she’d finish. But with determination and the right support, she did.

At Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, we celebrate stories like Regina’s. They reflect the Ka Makani spirit: strength in adversity, purpose through challenge, and the belief that it’s never too late to learn and thrive.

At Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, we honor stories like Regina’s. They remind us that education is not just about where you start—it’s about who you become.

Marta’s Journey from Spain to Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy

Originally from Spain, Marta Arcones chose Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy for its unique mix of academic challenge, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Leaving behind the traditional Spanish school system, she was drawn to Hawai'i Preparatory Academy's sense of belonging, even before she arrived.

Though her journey began with lost luggage and uncertainty, she was quickly embraced by Hawai'i Preparatory Academy’s welcoming community. From chanting in Hawaiian during graduation to forging friendships across the globe, Marta discovered independence and confidence at Hawai'i Preparatory Academy.

Looking back, she credits Hawai'i Preparatory Academy with helping her discover who she is and what she’s passionate about.

“Hawai'i Preparatory Academy isn’t just a school, it’s your own little family,” Marta says. “The friendships and experiences I gained there will stay with me forever.”

Questions? Contact us on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube. @boardingschoolreview

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of daily activities do students experience at Hawai'i Preparatory Academy boarding school?

Students' days at Hawai'i Preparatory Academy include meaningful classroom experiences, hands–on electives, outdoor adventures, and tight–knit dorm life.

How does Hawai'i Preparatory Academy support students facing personal challenges?

Hawai'i Preparatory Academy celebrates stories like Regina's, who balanced studies with work and parenting to earn her GED and college degree, reflecting strength in adversity.

What makes Hawai'i Preparatory Academy appealing to international boarding school students?

Marta from Spain chose Hawai'i Preparatory Academy for its academic challenge, cultural richness, natural beauty, and welcoming community that helped her gain independence and confidence.

What sense of community can boarding school students expect at Hawai'i Preparatory Academy?

According to Marta, Hawai'i Preparatory Academy is "your own little family," where friendships and experiences gained last a lifetime.

How can prospective families learn more about Hawai'i Preparatory Academy boarding school life?

Prospective families can contact Hawai'i Preparatory Academy on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube @boardingschoolreview.