Which community college are you currently attending?
Northeast State Community College
Which program are you pursuing and what about the subject intrigues you most?
I am currently pursuing two degree programs - Pre-Secondary Education & Criminal Justice "Paralegal Studies." The reason I enjoy criminal justice is that I feel as if being able to help others and assist in fixing issues in the justice system is so important.
What are your education and career aspirations?
I plan on attending East Tennessee State University's Paralegal program and graduate with my bachelor's. Once I graduate, I want to get my foot into the door at a law firm as a lawyer's assistant. I then would attend law school. My career goal is to be a certified lawyer working with nonprofits that assist with LGBTQ+ and racial discrimination.
What is a fun fact about you that few people know?
I used to take professional dance classes and coach dance.
What is your favorite book/movie/song and why?
My favorite Book/Movie would be "Love Simon" and because this movie helped when wanting to come out to my mom, so it will always be such an important part of my coming out.
My favorite song would have to be "Good as Hell" by Lizzo and I will always love this song because it is my pick me up, when feeling low.
What is your current favorite streaming binge and why?
My favorite show to binge would be "Pose" because it gives a view of Ballroom. Many people in the LGBTQ+ community forget or lack knowledge of the importance of that history. Also because the dancing gives me life.
In your spare time, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy practicing routines for when I perform. However, I love to spend time with friends and family. I definitely have learned to enjoy every second with them after 2020.
How are you practicing self-care during this difficult time?
I make sure to take time to breathe and enjoy taking time to myself. This is a good way to reflect on things that have helped me and will continue to help. Music has been a major self-care tool for myself.
How are you adjusting to remote life and what are your tips to stay motivated?
I still am adjusting to it. My tip to stay motivated is to find ways to make it fun for you.
As a Point Community College Scholarship Recipient, what is your message to other LGBTQ+ students?
Just because you are from a small town does not limit how much impact you have on others or how far you will go. Us small-town people may come from a small area, but our voices are loud and proud. Your voice needs to be heard by others so that they can gain the same confidence.
"My father always told me, 'If you are blessed, then it's your job to go out to the world and bless someone else.' If I have everything, what is everything if I cannot share it? People make the world go round. We need each other.” ― Taraji P. Henson
This post’s responses were submitted by Point Community College Scholarship Recipient Austin Boozer (He/Him/His).
Boozer is currently pursuing a degree in English at Northeast State Community College. Read more about Austin here.
