By Heather Alwine Eracleous

Originally from the Bronx, New York, Odessa Aytch and her mother moved to Fort Wayne in 2000 seeking a slower pace in a smaller city.  Her mother believed that relocating would give them more opportunities for a better future.  Mother knows best and her forethought proved accurate.

Aytch, who is busy as a work-study student for the Office Administration Chair and Department of Business, also interns for the TRiO program.  Seeking an Associate of Applied Science in Office Administration with a medical concentration, she clearly has the ambition to succeed. 

Upon completion of her associate degree, Aytch will be the first in her family to graduate from college.  Her educational endeavor will not end there.  Her goal is to continue beyond the halls of Ivy Tech and obtain a bachelor’s, master’s, and possibly a doctorate degree.

“I feel I am getting a better understanding of what professional means and looks like.  I am learning new skills and establishing a network of people who are giving me an opportunity to prove myself,” affirms Aytch, finding herself fortunate to have an internship and work-study opportunity. Both are providing her with practical experiences that she may not otherwise acquire. “When I graduate, I will have hands-on skills and knowledge that will prepare me for my career.”

Raising her son as a single mother, Aytch knows that her education is particularly important.  Establishing a solid foundation for her career is a high priority as her five-year goal is to be a successful corporate office administrator.

Aytch is happily involved with the TRiO program and is an active member of her church.  Declaring that she “lives life to the fullest”, Aytch believes that being a student at Ivy Tech Community College is more like being a member of the Ivy Tech family. 

“For those considering Ivy Tech but are afraid they do not have the finances, I want them to know there is affordable tuition, financial aid, and online courses,” testifies Aytch.