The people behind Transition! Magazine are all about opening doors for Hawai'i's teens.

The new publication — free and available at all public high schools — offers guidelines on classes, and resources to help students choose their post high school paths.

"The whole purpose of the magazine is to help students find their interests and passions," said editor Cynthia Emoto. "If they find it early in life, then their whole career journey has practically started."

The magazine's first issue includes profiles of young professionals who share how they overcame obstacles to get to where they are today and a listing of Web sites for information on scholarships and financial aid programs. It is published by the Obun Hawaii Group.

"Our message to the students is simple, but powerful: You're in control," said publisher Raymond Nishigaya. "You may not be able to control the environment or those around you, but you can control how you react, how you dream, how you motivate yourself and, most importantly, you can control the type of life you want for yourself."

Transition! will be distributed three times a year to all public high schools statewide, with the help of the University of Hawai'i and the state Department of Education.

For information on how to get a copy, call 596-3344.

Reach Zenaida Serrano at zserrano@honoluluadvertiser.com.