Penn State Harrisburg junior men's basketball forward Austin Chimuma is a criminal justice major who only began playing basketball in 7th grade. Chimuma's experience playing AAU basketball helped lead him to the collegiate level, where he and the Lions are off to a 5-2 start to the 2015-16 season. INTRODUCING … Austin Chimuma.
Briefly, what is your background in the sport you play?
I have been playing the sport of basketball since I was in the 7thgrade and over time I have grown to love the sport and work very hard and diligently at improving my skills to perform at the top of my game. Never did I take the sport seriously until I began playing on an AAU basketball team and I saw the level of talent that other guys my age were at around the country.
What is your major in college, and what is the most important thing you learned in that discipline?
I have chosen to major in Criminal Justice, and I learned in order to join the law enforcement you have to stay out of trouble and not let bad things in society destroy your aspirations.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite spot on campus would have to be the cafeteria mainly because you are always around your friends who you don't normally get to spend time with throughout the day and when they are in class or at their homes.
Outside of your home and campus, where is your favorite place visit?
My favorite place to visit is Hardees, because I love their chicken tenders and sweet tea.
Other than your team, what organization (s) do you participate in (on campus or off campus)?
Other than basketball, I also participate in the African Student Association (ASA) as a way to get closer and generate more ideas for students to enjoy their college experience.
Briefly describe the most memorable experience during your collegiate athletic career.
My most memorable experience during my collegiate career was at my junior college down in Maryland. When we played against the school in my home county, I played the best game of my college career. I totaled 21 points, 16 rebounds and eight blocks with all of my brothers and family there to watch.
Other than your family members, who was the most influential person in your life?
The most influential person in my life has been my AAU coach. He has coached and trained me for almost nine years now and has always been the additional father/older figure in my life with everything he has done. My effort on and off the court in everything I do is partially because of the mindset he has taught me to have and never give up.
What is the most important societal issue facing college students?
The most important societal issue facing college students is drugs. The access to drugs today is everywhere and many people want to try something new and say it has been done.
If you could change any one item in the world (in your personal life, school, community, amateur or professional sports, national/international issue, etc.), what would it be, why, and how would you do it?
If I could change one item it will be to lower the tuition cost for college students. Many college students are forced to work and help pay bills, which can negatively impact their work ethic in the classroom and as well as ability to function throughout the day.
What is your favorite form of entertainment?
My favorite form of entertainment is television because you can always find something interesting or something beneficial to your knowledge or life on there. Not to mention just watching exciting movies.
If you could give one piece of advice to elementary school children, what would that advice be?
What you do here in the classroom and in school is shaping the young person you will become as you get older. Paying attention in class, doing your homework, and staying out of trouble are all things to keep you on the right track.
Outside of the CAC, who or what is your favorite sports person or team?
Jamal Crawford of the Los Angeles Clippers is my favorite player because he is a very quiet and skilled individual. He is very humble and is always about team before he is about himself. Jamal has been 6th man of the year multiple times and has never complained to any of his coaches about playing time, etc.
Name three (3) people, real or fictional, living or dead, that you'd like to have dinner with?
The first person would have to be Michael Jackson. I want to sit down and just talk about the journey and strides he took towards being the great pop artist that he was.
The second person I'd like to have dinner with is Jamal Crawford. I'd love to talk to him on how he is able to stay so humble.
Finally, I'd like to have dinner with Rihanna because I think she is one of the most beautiful women in the world. Having dinner with her would be one of the highlights of my life.