Student studying mortuary science, art

By Chloe Gregg
Associate Editor

Amber Austin is an LCC student who is exploring not only her career in classes, but also her hobbies.

Austin is a general studies major who is planning on starting an apprenticeship at a funeral home after graduating from LCC this year, as well as continuing her love and passion for art.

She hopes to receive hands-on experience as a mortician in her apprenticeship. Austin also plans on completing her bachelor’s degree in mortuary science at a four-year university. Ultimately, she hopes to become a mortician or a funeral director’s assistant.

“LCC has helped me on my path by providing a good education,” Austin said. “(LCC has been) helping me make sure I take the correct classes to get here. And success coaches helped me talk to people in the funeral home business and get connections I need after graduation.”

Austin said she decided to take art classes as well, because she has been practicing art for over 15 years and wanted to learn and expand her craft.

In her free time, she enjoys art, sketching, painting, crafting and creating. Austin said she also enjoys hanging out with her friends and trying fun, new restaurants around the Lansing area with them.

Asheligh Austin, Amber’s sister, said that she is impressed with Amber’s hard work and artwork.

"Amber did not think that this art class at LCC would be so challenging, but she took it in stride and works hard on every piece,” Ashleigh said.

Amber Austin gave advice for anyone who also wants to take a hobby class at LCC.

“My advice to those who want to pursue art at LCC would be to do it,” Austin said. “There are good classes to begin and if you have never tried art before, the teachers are very nice and so helpful.

“There are classes for experienced artists as well. Art isn't just for people who want to be artists, I am an artist as a hobby, but it is a passion of mine and I know it's worth pursuing.”