Four years fly by in the blink of an eye.
At Hampton University, the journey begins the moment freshmen arrive on campus, welcomed by cheers and chants during New Student Orientation. Excitement and promise fill the air as the student body gathers in the Convocation Center to mark the official start of the academic year. That same space becomes a full-circle moment at Commencement, when those once-wide-eyed first-years return—transformed—to cross the stage as graduates ready to lead, serve, and shape the world.
As Hampton prepares to celebrate the Class of 2025 at this year’s Commencement on May 11, students like Amber Austin embody the spirit, excellence, and determination that define the Hampton experience. A standout scholar and servant-leader, Amber’s evolution from eager freshman to confident senior is both personal and profound.
This spring, Amber received one of Hampton’s highest honors—the prestigious President’s Cup—during the university’s annual Honors Day ceremony. It was a milestone years in the making. From her first semester, she pursued academic distinction with unwavering focus, and each chapter of her undergraduate journey reflects the drive, discipline, and leadership that distinguish a Hampton student.
Throughout her time on campus, Amber leaned into opportunities that stretched beyond the classroom. As President of the Minority Association for Pre-Health Students (MAPS), she mentored aspiring medical professionals and fostered a supportive community. She also served as a supplemental instructor, guiding peers through some of the most challenging pre-med coursework.
Amber’s Hampton story is also a story of family and legacy. This week, she walks across the stage as her younger brother Kenneth is just beginning his own Hampton experience. Their overlap is more than a coincidence—it’s a reflection of Hampton’s generational impact. The siblings follow in the footsteps of their physician parents, and Kenneth, like Amber, plans to attend medical school.
“I look forward to giving back to Hampton students in the same way that alumni physicians poured into me,” Amber shared. “Hampton gave me the space to lead and helped me unlock my full potential.”
Now, with her sights set on a future in medicine, Amber finds herself drawn to two specialties that represent both precision and purpose. Dermatology allows her to blend science with artistry, helping patients regain confidence in their appearance. Neurology challenges her intellect, fueling her fascination with the human brain and its role in shaping behavior, memory, and identity.
After earning acceptance letters from five prestigious medical schools—a testament to her excellence and perseverance—Amber chose the University of Louisville School of Medicine. Her decision wasn’t based on rankings, but on values. It was the school’s inclusive culture, strong clinical training, and commitment to service that ultimately sealed the deal.
Amber also hopes to address health disparities and social determinants of health that disproportionately affect aging populations. Inspired by her grandmother’s health journey, she’s especially passionate about improving care for seniors—ensuring they receive dignity, compassion, and quality as they age.
Amber’s story is not an exception—it’s an example. Hampton graduates are prepared for what’s next. In the most recent senior exit survey, half of graduating students reported plans to pursue advanced degrees at institutions like Columbia University, Rush University, and the University of Florida. The other half accepted job offers from top employers, including Accenture, the Department of Defense, YMCA, and Hampton University itself.
Amber’s transformation—from a first-year student navigating unfamiliar ground to a poised senior headed to medical school—illustrates the power of a Hampton education. It’s not just about what students learn, but how they grow.
From medicine to law, education to entrepreneurship, Hampton students are forging paths fueled by ambition and anchored in purpose. Amber Austin is no exception—she’s blazing hers with confidence, compassion, and the unmistakable spirit of a Hampton Pirate.
