Austin James was born and raised in Butte, Montana. As a first-generation college student, Austin obtained his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Montana in 2012. He is a founder of Phi Delta Theta fraternity, maintains close contact with active members of the fraternity on campus. Austin also served as President Golden Key Honor Society, President of College Republicans, ASUM Senator, and an active member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honors Society, Pi Sigma Epsilon Mu Political Science Honors Society, Order of Omega Greek Honors Society, Zoo Crew, and UM Taekwondo. Austin currently attends Michigan State University-College of Law.