Frequently Asked Questions

We know you have lots of questions about the Center. Hopefully the answers to the following FAQ's will answer all of your questions. If not, please email us!

Can an HCC Student Use the Student Life Center?

Hawaiʻi Community College students are not automatically assessed the $78 per semester fee. However, similar to the Student Health Services fee, those HCC students who do wish to utilize the Student Life Center can opt to pay the fee each semester for access to the facility and programs. Payment is made at the Student Life Center front desk. Students must bring a valid HCC student identification card.

What programs and activities are offered at the Center?

A wide variety of fitness, wellness and recreation programs and activities are offered at the Center. Programs and activities include:

• Aerobics
• Strength and weight training
• Cardio training (using treadmills, stationary bikes, ellipticals, etc.)
• Yoga and Pilates
• Dance
• Lap swimming
• Other aquatic activities such as water polo and water aerobics
• Martial arts
• Tai chi
• Wellness, stress relief and nutrition programs

What are the hours?

Visit the Hours of Operations page for more information.

What is the size of the swimming pool?

The Olympic-size swimming pool is 50 meters long by 25 yards wide, with depths ranging from about 4 feet to 6.5 feet.

What kind of equipment and machines will be available?

Treadmills, elliptical cross-trainers, stair climbers, upright and recumbent bicycles, free weights, dumbbells and barbell racks, seated rowing machines, incline/flat/utility benches, and equipment for the following types of exercises: bicep curls, triceps extensions, lateral raises, shoulder and chest press, torso rotation, back extension, pec fly/rear delt, abdomen workstation, leg extension and curls, seated leg curl and press, lat pulldowns, lat rowing, lat horizontal bench press, seated/standing shrug, and more!

Are there locker room facilities?

Yes, showers and lockers are available to those using the Center.

Do athletic teams have priority for using the Student Life Center?

No. The Student Life Center is for all students. It is not intended to be used only for athletes, but for all students--whether you are just looking for a study break, are participating in an intramural or club sport program, or are a student-athlete.

Why is there a fee to use the Student Life Center?

Fees are necessary to cover the expenses of operating a high-quality, first-class facility. The University was conscientious to keep the fee as low as possible so that the Center can operate effectively while still being affordable for students. The Financial Aid Office will be able to include it in students' budgets; by doing so, students who demonstrate financial need and apply for financial aid by the priority deadline should be awarded enough financial aid to cover the cost of the fee.

Will I get to use the Student Life Center if I'm not a student?

Daily Pass

All faculty and staff will be eligible to purchase a daily "One Day Trial" at a nominal fee of $6.00 (cash or check only accepted) This pass allows the Faculty/Staff (or HCC students who have not purchased a membership) unlimited access to the Center for an entire day. There is no limit to the number of Aloha passes a faculty/staff member may purchase throughout the semester. Faculty/staff must present a current UH Hilo/HCC identification card with a current validation sticker. Faculty/Staff are not permitted to purchase Aloha Passes for guest at this time.

Memberships

UH System Students, UH System Faculty/Staff and Faculty Emeritus memberships are now offered (on a limited basis) . See memberships for more information.

I've heard that the Student Life Center is a "green" building. What does that mean?

This refers to implementing environmentally friendly and sustainable systems in the design, construction and operation of the new Center. The UH Hilo Student Life Center is rated using the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) system. The Center was originally designed for silver certification under this system. To achieve this certification, the construction team has worked hard at incorporating environmentally friendly practices such as recycling waste, utilizing day lighting to reduce dependency on electricity, installing energy efficient air conditioning, and using renewable and locally produced materials.

How did the Student Life Center come about?

The planning and initial design for the UH Hilo Student Life Center began in the early 2000’s. UH Hilo student leaders became heavily involved by actively lobbying the State Legislature for design funds in 2001 and for construction funds in 2004. They were ultimately successful in obtaining funds for design and construction of the state-of-the-art building. These dedicated and committed student leaders believed strongly in the need for a recreational center on campus. All of the construction costs came from the Hawaiʻi State Government.

Are there jobs for students at the Student Life Center?

Yes! Much of the Center is run and operated by paid student employees. The Center needs students with a broad range of skills, such as lifeguarding, personal training, and office skills. Working at the Center is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable work experience while helping to pay for your expenses at the same time. Positions are advertised through the Student Employment & Cooperative Education (SECE) Job Search portal and applications are now being accepted. In addition to paid jobs for students, there may also be opportunities to volunteer at the Center.

I'm not a jock and don't like to workout. What will the Center offer for me?

We offer a diverse range of programs and activities that will appeal to a broad range of students. Students may participate individually or in groups, in structured or unstructured activities, and in low-impact or high-impact activities. Even if you don't like to workout, the Center is a great place to hang out, cool off with a leisurely swim in the pool, sunbathe on the pool deck while relaxing or studying, have a snack, cruise the internet, or meet friends.

Who can I contact for more information?

• Contact Mr. Timothy Moore , Director of the Student Life Center