For many students, including December graduate Jermain Pierson, Ivy Tech is the perfect place to find the career path that’s best for them.

Jermain dropped out of high school in 2010 and went back for his technical honors high school diploma in 2014 at The Excel Center, a tuition-free high school for adults. Two years later he enrolled at Ivy Tech to further his education in General Studies.

“I chose Ivy Tech not only for the convenience of price and location, but for its versatile hours, class sizes and transferable credits,” he said.

Jermain loved the General Studies program because it enabled him to take a small step into a field he was curious about.

Through open discussions in class, Jermain said he was able to become comfortable talking about subjects that would normally be taboo. He also gives credit to one of his instructors, Professor Pike, who pushed him with his work as a poet.

“She taught me new styles and techniques, as well,” he said.

After Jermain graduates in December 2017, he plans to pursue a degree in mortuary science. He hopes to one day operate his own chain of crematories.

For those considering advancing their career and coming to Ivy Tech, he encourages people to work hard.

“Like anything in life, if you’re going to come to Ivy Tech, give it all you have. Don’t hesitate, don’t stop.”