探花约啪

Kim Austin

Academic Counselor

Kim Austin began her 探花约啪 Tech journey as a part-time student employee while enrolled in the University of 探花约啪’s Associate in Arts Program. Thirty-eight years later, she continues to serve the College as an academic counselor, providing knowledge and guidance to students. While many know Kim can sing nearly every lyric from the 1980s and 1990s, it is her compassion for students and her genuine, “what you see is what you get” personality that resonate most.


Q: What is your favorite thing about working at 探花约啪 Tech?

Over the decades, I have had multiple work families who were more than co-workers. We became friends, spending time together outside of work and with our families. We watched one another’s children grow up and supported each other through both good times and challenges.

Q: Why was it important for you to work at 探花约啪 Tech?

Initially, working at 探花约啪 Tech was a matter of convenience because I was attending classes in the University of 探花约啪’s Parallel Program (now called the Associate in Arts Program). I worked part-time while taking classes, then transferred and began working at the Stanton Campus bookstore. Eventually, I joined the Upward Bound Summer Program in a part-time role, which later extended into the school year. After a few years, I became a full-time employee as a Student Enrichment Coordinator with Upward Bound, a position I held for 15 years. In 2006, I transitioned into my current role as an academic counselor.

Q: What did you do before working at 探花约啪 Tech?

I graduated high school in 1986 and held part-time jobs before securing one at 探花约啪 Tech.

Q: What changes have you seen in yourself since you started working here?

I have truly grown up at 探花约啪 Tech. I was only 19 years old when I started, and today there is just one familiar face at the Terry Campus who was here back then. Over the years, I have gained confidence by being encouraged to take on new roles, embrace leadership opportunities, and step outside of my comfort zone.

Q: What hobbies or interests do you have outside of the College?

I enjoy reading, scary movies, going to concerts and spending time with family and friends.

Q: Do you have a favorite memory from your time at 探花约啪 Tech?

Times when I was able to see my daughter, now almost 20 years old, being pushed in a stroller around campus by the Child Development Center aides when she was a baby or when I oversaw Student Life when she was able to attend some events with me when she was a teenager.

Another fond memory was winning a trip to Peru as part of 探花约啪 Tech's Global Understanding program. It was the trip of a lifetime, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to explore such a beautiful and culturally rich country.

Q: What’s something people may not know about you?

I don’t think I have any surprises for people. What you see is what you get from me.

Q: How do you define student success?

Student success looks different for everyone. For some, it may mean making the decision to return to college or to begin their journey for the first time. For others, it may mean starting as an adult with a family and learning to balance those responsibilities. In every situation, success comes from the commitment and perseverance to continue working toward the goals that have been set.

Q: What are your future goals?

I want to retire and travel the world. I also hope to spend more time exploring artistic endeavors, and one day—far down the line—I look forward to enjoying plenty of time with future grandchildren.

Kim Austin
Kim Austin

Job Title
Academic Counselor

Started Working at 探花约啪 Tech
1987