Austin succeeds at Clarion University

But, a short two years ago, Austin considered leaving it all behind. Clarion University's Office of Student Support Services helped to change his mind and propel him toward success.

Austin, a son of David and Darlene Austin of Corry and a graduate of Corry High School, was familiar with Clarion University before making his decision to go to college. His great-great grandfather graduated from Clarion in 1901, a great-uncle graduated from Clarion in 1939, and his grandfather attended Clarion in the 1930s until the Great Depression ended his college dreams.

"I was familiar with Clarion," said Austin. "I knew I wanted to study to be a tenor or study library science. I knew Clarion had one of the few accredited library science programs when I visited in 2004 and I was quite impressed."

He did decide to enter Clarion as a music major, but later switched to library science. His early experiences didn't go as he had hoped.

"I was petrified when I got to campus and I'm not afraid to say that," recalled Austin. "I was out of my element and it was the first time I had ever been away from home. I have a mild form of Asperbergers syndrome which effects how I adapt and relate to people, which at the time was quite difficult for me to do."

Austin got involved with the music ensembles and started taking voice lessons, which helped him somewhat. Still, by his sophomore year he thought about leaving. That is where Robin Lenox, assistant professor and academic counselor for Student Support Services came through.

"TRIO and Disability Support Services have been wonderful for me," said Austin. "Robin Lenox was always willing to listen to me when I had problems. She set me up with great opportunities and helped me with advice about scheduling and academics. I appreciate all that was done for me."

With this help, Austin decided he could pursue both of his passions in one degree, now aiming at becoming a music librarian.

"Library science is expanding in this area," he said. "The whole field of music has always interested me and it is a joy to combine the loves of my life into one. Library science has been wonderful to me and my experience has been phenomenal. I have had many good professors."

Austin is active in campus activities. He is a tenor and plays the piano, tuba, organ, and string bass. This year, he is a member of the Clarion University's Orchestra, Choir, and Madrigal Singers. He is a member of Phi Mu Alpha, a social music fraternity holding on campus events and visiting nursing homes and hospitals to perform, where he has served as warden officer (parliamentarian); and was the president of the Ballentine/Becht Hall Council. Previously, he has performed in the Golden Eagle Marching Band and has been a member of the Wind Ensemble and Brass Ensemble.

He also sings in the choir at Grace Lutheran Church in Clarion. There he met the church's organist Janice Grunenwald and her husband, Joe, president of Clarion University. "It has been a great honor serving under Janice in the choir," said Austin.

Austin didn't know Joe Grunenwald was Clarion University's president when they met. But the acquaintanceship grew from there to a point where Austin was a guest for dinner at President Grunenwald's home. The Austin's reciprocated by inviting the Grunenwald's visit him.

"I have changed for the better since I have been here," said Austin. "I am able to interact socially and intellectually. Clarion University has been very good for me."

Clarion University's Trio Student Support Services Programs provide an array of services to students admitted to the program, which may include study skills assistance, academic advising, and career and financial counseling. During the academic year, there are workshops and on-going services, which focus on academic survival and learning-to-learn activities are offered. The services provided are individually designed and are based on the student's needs as identified by appropriate documentation and through discussions with the program staff. Student accepted into the program must meet eligibility requirements established by the institution and the United States Department of Education.

The Office of Disability Support Services is available to any enrolled Clarion University student having a documented disability. The Office of Disability Support Services provides student with reasonable accommodations as documented through evaluations. Appropriate accommodations are individually based upon identified need. The coordinator meets with these students each semester to determine the effectiveness of the accommodation and to evaluate the need for any further services.

Clarion University is the high-achieving, nationally recognized, comprehensive university that delivers a personal and challenging academic experience.