I’m a Non-Traditional Student Redefining ‘Traditional’ | Student Voices

My name is Grant Stickler, I am 25 years old, and nearly finished with my first year at Ivy Tech.

My path here has been convoluted and anything but linear. I am what's called a “non-traditional student.” Would I change anything? Absolutely not. 

The reason I am sharing my story is twofold: first, it is never too late to change your direction in life; and second, it's okay to challenge social norms – “traditional” doesn’t mean right. 

I was born and raised in a suburb just north of Chicago. The high school I attended had a post-secondary enrollment rate of 88.9%. Attending college right out of high school never seemed like a choice for me. The weight of that expectation had a profound effect. 

As the time to apply to college approached, I was in crisis. I didn’t know who I was or what I wanted to do. I know that’s not a unique experience, but my response was. I buried my head in the sand and let others handle it for me. Somehow, I was enrolled in a place I hated, pursuing a degree that didn’t interest me. 

The end of my first semester coincided with the start of COVID-19. I was given a way out of the “traditional” path. At the time, it felt like my life was over. What I didn’t know was that a new door in life can only open with the closure of another. 

This period allowed me to learn new skills, make lifelong connections, travel the world, and ultimately find who I am. The mirror in which I used to see myself was wiped clean. When the time came to reconsider higher education, I was a radically different person. 

That brings me to Ivy Tech. Why would someone from out of state move to Indianapolis to attend Ivy Tech? After careful consideration and research, I came to the conclusion that Ivy Tech was the best option in nearly all facets. 

Besides being a quick three-hour drive from home, Ivy Tech offers the best engineering associate's degree in the United States, per College Factual. This type of quality education is rarely paired with the incredible affordability Ivy Tech offers. Ivy Tech also provides one of the best pathways to world-renowned four-year universities such as Purdue University and Indiana University.

The idea of moving out of state, away from my friends and family, created some trepidation. I was not only concerned about how I would fare in academia, but if I would find a community. Fortunately, both of these fears subsided quickly. Ivy Tech not only offers excellent academic resources, but a litany of clubs and opportunities for community building. 

Returning to school after six years was intimidating. The foundation I had built over years of schooling was fraught with cobwebs. Thankfully, the faculty at Ivy Tech is well-versed in my situation. I was paired with a terrific advisor who made sure I wasn’t going in over my head. Additionally, I made good use of the free tutoring lab to clear any stubborn cobwebs. 

Academically, Ivy Tech had my back. The real question was: how would I build a community in an unfamiliar city? I was astonished by the number of events and organizations Ivy Tech offers. From intramural sports to jewelry making, I had a myriad of opportunities to meet people with similar interests. 

Ivy Tech has welcomed me with open arms despite being a non-traditional student. I am incredibly grateful that I was afforded a second opportunity at higher education. Today, I am here because I want to be, not because I feel like I should.

To anyone considering higher education, don’t feel pressured to go before you are ready. The time I took to find myself gave me the ability to approach school with more perspective. Secondly, everyone has a different timeline; the only person you can compare yourself to is your past self. 

One of my deepest-held beliefs is that you are an amalgamation of the people you surround yourself with. The wide berth of students and faculty from nearly every background at Ivy Tech encourages limitless growth and learning opportunities in and out of the classroom. 

In the end, despite my unconventional route, I wouldn’t change a thing- it shaped me into the person I am today. 

Student Voices

At Ivy Tech, every student has a unique journey—a story of challenges, growth, and triumph. Student Voices is a series dedicated to showcasing these stories, written by students, for students. Here, you’ll find firsthand accounts of what it’s like to navigate the path to education, overcome obstacles, and achieve goals at Ivy Tech Indianapolis.

Whether it’s returning to school after years away, balancing work and family with classes, or discovering a passion for learning, these stories remind us that we’re not alone in our struggles and successes. Through Student Voices, we celebrate the diversity, resilience, and determination of our Ivy Tech community.

If you have a story to share or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Your voice matters, and it could inspire someone to take their next big step. Please fill out this form to share your story.