What is your background: My name is Hodabalo Possike, and I’m originally from Togo. I am married with three beautiful daughters. I did my studies in French as my first language and English my second language. I got my high school education at Ketao College in Togo in 2010 before traveling to the United States in 2014. I stayed one year in Washington D.C. before moving to Cedar Rapids.
What brought you to Kirkwood and why?: I came to Kirkwood to pursue an opportunity that was offered to me by my employer to pursue an Automation and Instrumentation Technology degree. It was totally paid for by the company. Even though it wasn’t my first goal, I found I couldn’t miss the chance to earn a free associate degree and get a better job. I graduated from the program in 2022 and now I am back at Kirkwood again to pursue my passion.
What is your program of study and what interests you about it?: I am in the Automotive Collision Repair program right now because I have always been interested in cars. I love cars–even more so when they are nice and shiny. I have been wasting a lot of money in body shops trying to fix every minor scratch and dent that occur on my cars, and I was getting tired of it. So, I decided to learn how to do it myself. After I learned more about auto collision repair as well as a little bit about car business overall, I decided I wanted to build an auto collision repair business after I graduate. My plan is to buy old cars that need repairs, or even cars that I can get at a low price. Then I will rebuild and sell them for a profit.
Are you involved in anything on campus?: I am not involved in anything on campus by the moment, but I might be in the future.
What do you do for fun?: I like music and enjoy playing gospel music and songs at church. So whenever I can, I grab my guitar and make music with my friends. I also like to travel with my family and spend some time away from home. My children love animals so much and we like to visit zoos all the time.
Where do you see yourself in five years?: In five years, I see myself as a home owner with three nice cars that are paid off. In addition, I also see myself owning a tow truck with a little garage where I spend my extra time working on cars, having fan, and growing my business.