A New Melody: Jonny Discovers His Path in Music Education
Thanks to the supportive environment at ICC, Jonny flourished.
Jonny started college thinking he’d follow his father’s footsteps into engineering. He took Dual Credit classes in high school and began his first semester at ICC with that plan in mind. But when he struggled in engineering and withdrew from his calculus class, he faced a hard truth—it wasn’t the path for him.
That turning point led him to explore his passion for music. With a background in musical theatre, Jonny decided to audition for the Vocal Jazz group. He not only earned a spot, but also discovered the group came with a tuition waiver—an opportunity that transformed his future.
“The teachers here are incredible. They not only know their material, but they teach it in a way that’s easy to follow. It’s clear they care about their students’ success.”
Jonny, ICC Student
The guidance he received from Vocal Jazz Director Dr. Julie Clemens was life-changing. Her mentorship and encouragement helped Jonny find a new path, leading him to decide to study Music Education by the end of his first semester. Dr. Clemens wasn’t just an instructor; she provided invaluable support in everything from test-taking strategies to building confidence in his academic pursuits.
Originally drawn to ICC because of its affordability compared to a four-year institution, Jonny quickly realized just how flexible and cost-effective the college is. Even when he briefly lost his tuition waiver and had to cover costs himself, the financial burden was manageable thanks to the low tuition costs.
“At ICC, you can take your time, explore new interests, and not worry as much about the cost. It’s a place where you can grow and experiment without breaking the bank,” Jonny says.
Staying close to home in Metamora was another benefit of choosing ICC. His mom, an ICC alum, had always spoken highly of the college—and after his dad made spreadsheet comparing quality and cost, ICC came out on top.
After graduation, he plans to continue his education, aiming to teach high school music while pursuing advanced degrees. His ultimate goal? To become a college choir director and inspire the next generation of musicians just as ICC inspired him.
Reflecting on his journey, Jonny says, “ICC helped me become more confident and excited about life, and I made some really great friends along the way.”