Opportunity meets purpose at every turn for Timothy John, a sophomore biology/pre-med major at PennWest Clarion who recently became the Clarion student representative on the PennWest Council of Trustees.

Just a few years ago, Timothy was finishing high school in Chennai, India. Today, he's an American citizen, a Navy reservist, and a full voting member on a council charged with reviewing the administration, fiscal management, and physical plant of the university.

"Growing up, I wasn't the greatest student," Timothy admits. "I knew I had the potential, but I never tried. I had no motivation, and no purpose."

That changed when he enrolled at PennWest Clarion. Recognizing the disciplined path required for a career in medicine, Timothy seized an unexpected opportunity while working at Starbucks, where he met a Navy recruiter.

"Hearing that opportunity, I felt like that was what I needed to strengthen my discipline. It would be challenging, and it would help me with my career in the medical field," he explains.

Through his military service, Timothy earned his U.S. citizenship – a transformative moment. "I knew this was God's purpose," he reflects. "I'm going to give my best to this country. It was a solidifying moment to realize that this is where I belong."

On campus, Timothy's days are filled with purpose. He organizes study groups with friends, leads Sunday worship for the Christian student group BASIC, and works part-time at Clarion's Canyon Coffee as a self-described coffee enthusiast.

As a student trustee, Timothy aims to be a conduit between students and administration, focusing on cultivating student success by helping peers identify their potential and find opportunities to excel.

His Navy service has already provided him with Basic Life Support and phlebotomy certifications, positioning him well for his medical aspirations. After completing his undergraduate degree, Timothy can choose from multiple pathways to medical school through his military connection.

"The opportunities at PennWest Clarion have helped me discover where I belong," Timothy says, "both as a student and as a citizen."