In my downtime, I stay active through Pilates, golf, and fitness, enjoy exploring new places and cultures, and have a strong interest in food and cooking, especially discovering hidden local gems Driven by curiosity and learning across disciplines, I enjoy exploring topics around entrepreneurship and personal investing
Catherine Hesse
COLLEGE STUDENT
Honolulu,HI
Summary
Finance major at UH Mānoa with hands-on experience applying finance and business concepts beyond the classroom. Currently own and operate The Pure Pork Co., working directly with a local farm to manage operations, build supply chains, and grow relationship-driven customer bases across diverse communities. Known for balancing academic rigor with meaningful responsibilities outside the classroom, developing strong communication, leadership, and people skills. Interested in entrepreneurship, business development, and long-term applications in real estate, with a focus on creating positive, community-centered impact.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
2
2
Languages
Work History
Small Business Owner
The Pure Pork Co
03.2025 - Current
- Operations & Business Management: Managed day-to-day operations, finances, suppliers, and health compliance to maintain efficiency and profitability
- Customer Relations & Relationship-Driven Sales: Built and retained a loyal customer base through personalized customer servicing, problem-solving, and trust-based sales
- Marketing & Growth Strategy: Expanded brand awareness and sales through community events and WeChat promotions, building and engaging a WeChat community of 800+ members
Digital Marketing Shadow
CHUQI Cultural Macau / IDE Media
05.2025 - 06.2025
- Shadowed the team at CHUQI Cultural Macau / IDE Media in Tokyo, a digital marketing agency serving luxury hotels across Asia. Gained insight into cross-cultural branding, global strategy, and how AI is transforming marketing.
Licensed Insurance Agent
National Life Group and Premier Financial Alliance
10.2023 - 03.2025
- Licensed independent agent supporting clients in life insurance and annuities across English and Chinese-speaking communities, developing strong communication, client relationship, and service skills in a regulated financial environment.
Realtor Intern
Kona Realty All Islands
09.2023 - 12.2023
- Assisted a real estate broker with open houses, client communication, and property showings; supported the sales process from prep to close in a hands-on, unlicensed support role.
Swimming Teachers Assistant
Island Swim School
12.2020 - 05.2023
- Support swimming instructors in overseeing operational tasks and assisting children.
Urban Planning Intern
Alakai Development
07.2019 - 08.2019
- Participated in an urban development project exploring potential affordable housing solutions at Windward Community College; gained insight into how planning, policy, and community needs intersect.
Education
Bachelors Degree (in Progress) - Finance
University of Hawaiʻi At Mānoa
Honolulu, HI05-2027
High School and IB Diploma - undefined
Le Jardin Academy
Kailua05.2023
Skills
- Multicultural and Bilingual Communication (English / Chinese)
- Relationship Building and People-Centered Communication
- Customer Engagement and Retention
- Vendor and Partner Relations
- Problem-Solving and Adaptability
- Business and Operations Management
- Self-Motivation and Time Management
Certification
Hawaii Life Pre-Licensing at XCEL Solutions
Interests
Timeline
AI Essentials at Google Coursera
05-2025
Digital Marketing Shadow
CHUQI Cultural Macau / IDE Media
05.2025 - 06.2025
Small Business Owner
The Pure Pork Co
03.2025 - Current
Hawaii Life Pre-Licensing at XCEL Solutions
10-2023
Licensed Insurance Agent
National Life Group and Premier Financial Alliance
10.2023 - 03.2025
Realtor Intern
Kona Realty All Islands
09.2023 - 12.2023
Swimming Teachers Assistant
Island Swim School
12.2020 - 05.2023
Urban Planning Intern
Alakai Development
07.2019 - 08.2019
High School and IB Diploma - undefined
Le Jardin Academy
Bachelors Degree (in Progress) - Finance
University of Hawaiʻi At Mānoa