Taking chances she never thought possible — in the state legislature

“My journey through high school was not easy,” says University of Hawai‘i at Hilo alum Kari Sochor. “At the beginning of ninth grade, I was in a car accident which made it difficult to finish, but I did, and I started high school in 2010 at Konawaena High School in Kealakekua.”

A brain injury led to mental health trouble at the beginning of Kari’s junior year. Six months after dropping out of school, she enrolled in the Job Corps, earning her diploma from McKinley Community High School for Adults and returning to Hawai‘i Island in 2012. “Thankfully, I still had some support from my parents,” she says.

Years later, Kari enrolled at Hawai‘i Community College, majoring in administration of justice after switching from human services. She leaned on support from professors Donna Madrid and Sandra “Auntie Sandi” Claveria, who encouraged her to keep going. They inspired her to transfer to UH Hilo, where she grew her network, embraced new opportunities, and took chances she never thought possible.

Kari says, “You have to be willing to let go of the familiar to discover something greater.”

Three semesters before completing her bachelor's degree, Kari applied for an internship with the Hawai‘i County Council, through the UH Hilo Department of Administration of Justice. “I honestly didn’t think I’d get it,” she says, “but I took the chance, and it was a pivotal moment for me. In January 2023, I interned for councilmember Jenn Kagiwada, where I gained valuable insights on the relationship between the state and county, and the process of drafting resolutions. This inspired me to learn even more, so I applied for an internship with state representative Greggor Ilagan, and this leap was absolutely worth it.”

Internship fund provided peace of mind

Kari’s internship with the state legislature meant she had to move to Honolulu for the semester. “It was initially very intimidating,” she says. “I had never really lived in a city with so many people, so the transition was overwhelming at first.”

The John & Susie Dill State/Federal Government Student Internship Endowment helped Kari with expenses. The fund was established by Susie Dill, Assistant Professor in Hawai‘i CC’s accounting program, in memory of her husband John Dill, a UH Hilo graduate who majored in political science. It provides financial assistance to UH Hilo students serving as interns with Hawai‘i state or U.S. senators and representatives through the college’s Department of Administration of Justice Legislative Internship Program.

Kari says, “The John & Susie Dill Fund provided me with incredible support during this crazy time in my life. It helped cover essential expenses like food, rent, and necessities, which made a huge difference for me. I could focus more on my internship and less on the financial stress of putting food on the table and keeping a roof over my head. I could immerse myself in the role, take advantage of opportunities for study and growth, and truly make the most of this experience without constantly worrying about how I could to get by.

“The fund helped me financially and gave me peace of mind, and a sense of security, which are invaluable during such a significant transition in my life. I’m incredibly grateful.”

From intern to valued staff member

Kari completed the internship, graduated from UH Hilo in spring 2024, and was hired for a full-time position on Representative Ilagan’s staff. “Kari’s journey from college intern to valued staffer in our office is a testament to her heart and drive, and to the remarkable foundation UH provides,” says Ilagan. “She truly embodies the spirit of service and growth.”

Katherine Young, chair of UH Hilo’s Administration of Justice department, says, “Kari was an excellent student, so I had no doubt she would excel as a legislative intern, and I was thrilled to hear that she was hired as a full-time staffer after she graduated. Kari has worked diligently to pursue her academic and professional goals, and we're very proud of her at the AJ department.”

Now, as a full-time employee and constituent of the district, Kari’s role has evolved. She says, “My representative entrusts me with responsibilities having direct impact on our constituents and the broader community.” She coordinated dates for town hall meetings, securing venues, communicating with stakeholders, and ensuring the events ran smoothly. 

“I also handle a large volume of constituent communications, including answering emails and phone calls, addressing concerns, and connecting community members with the resources or information they need,” she says. “ I assist the office manager with tasks requiring immediate attention or additional support. This can include drafting the first version of recommendation letters or creating award certificates for outstanding members of the community.”

Kari says, “What makes this job truly special is the sense of teamwork. This environment encourages constant learning and growth, making even the busiest days enjoyable. And knowing my work is helping to create a more equitable, just, and thriving community makes everything worth it. It’s an exciting and meaningful place to be, and I’m thankful to be part of it.”