Conner B’s legislative journey
For HTA Waipahu senior Conner B., an Early College course quickly evolved into a front-row seat at the State Capitol.
While enrolled in Political Science 110, Conner’s engagement caught the attention of his professor. To bridge the gap between theory and practice, the professor helped secure Conner a spot at the State House and led an independent study so Conner could earn college credit while working. Today, that mentorship has placed Conner as a legislative intern in the office of Rep. Amy Perruso.
Conner’s week is a blend of high-level policy tracking and boots-on-the-ground community engagement. HTAʻs Career-Based Learning program and blended schedule give him the time to focus on the opportunity, which sometimes requires several hours a day at the capitol.
His current focus is deeply personal: HB1925, a bill aimed at expanding environmental education in high schools. Having previously worked with environmental nonprofit, Kupu, Conner knows the value of this curriculum firsthand.
He is also tracking critical legislation addressing the Native Hawaiian housing crisis, exploring ways to increase affordable housing through the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
Tracking these bills isn’t just a desk job; it often requires Conner to navigate the “organized chaos” of the Capitol in person. On his busiest days he is on the move — researching bills, and passing papers between offices for signature.
“I was surprised by how busy everyone was,” he says. “Every office was doing their own thing separately, but together at the same time. It’s an environment that requires heavy collaboration. You have to work with other politicians, parties, and the people on your own team.”
Through a range of frontline experiences — from recording resident concerns to attending live council meetings — Conner has gained extensive communications experience and a firsthand look at how effective governance depends on that constant dialogue. He has further applied these skills in professional settings, such as a one-on-one meeting with transportation chair Rep. Darius Kila, where he took the initiative to ask detailed questions about the rail project and its future extension plans.
He also spent time with Rep. Perruso discussing office dynamics, election cycles, and his own future aspirations to run for office.
These candid conversations about the future of Hawai‘i have solidified Conner’s trajectory. Having gained this firsthand look at the mechanics of governance, he plans to attend UH-Mānoa to study Political Science and Asian Studies, with his sights set on international law.
