Austin Rankin
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Austin Rankin, a second year student at Northwestern Oklahoma State University, is a student leader in many ways. He is an active member of the Student Government Association and the Northwestern Scholarship Ambassadors. Austin wants to combat social inequalities at NWOSU and other universities. He plans to attend law school and would like to be a defense attorney to give a voice to those who may not have one. Austin has attended the university during the COVID pandemic. He sees the need for student activities even during this time and has worked very hard to promote participation in events sponsored by the Student Government Association. He has also served as the Camp Ranger Coordinator. Camp Ranger is a short summer program for incoming freshman to acclimate them to university life, give them a sense of belonging and answer questions for many who may be first generation college students.
Personal Statement
"Service is the rent you pay for your room here on earth."--Muhammad Ali. This quote has inspired me on every twist and turn that my servant leadership experience has led me on. From a young age I have looked up to leaders and role models. I believe that to be a leader one must first be a servant. It is for this reason that life in legal defense has always interested me. I know that one of the most outstanding opportunities to promote my pursuit of a service-oriented life is to be accepted as a Newman Civic Fellow. My service experience began with my involvement in 4-H as a Clover Bud. It is through this involvement that I have learned skills such as communication, teamwork, and the importance of giving back. These skills have transcended my leadership experience and seeped into my everyday interactions. I am interested in addressing social inequalities at Northwestern and other campuses. I will be able to create long-term civic engagement by actively battling political polarization and creating an open dialogue with people from all walks of life.
