Eliza Blends Art and Healing to Find Her Purpose at ICC
For more than a decade, Eliza helped others heal through massage therapy.
But as the physical demands of the job grew—so did her family—and she began to rethink her future. She knew she wanted to continue helping others—she just wasn’t sure how.
That’s when she turned to ICC.
With a passion for art and its power to heal, Eliza had already started teaching neurographic art at the Peoria Art Guild—a drawing technique that uses freeform lines and shapes to reduce stress and encourage mindfulness. But she wanted to deepen her understanding of the connection between art and therapy. The Art and Psychology programs at ICC provided the perfect place to explore this new direction, offering the flexibility and support she needed to make it work.
“Everyone at ICC is so helpful, friendly, and encouraging. They truly want to see you succeed.”
Eliza, ICC Student
As a busy mother of two, Eliza appreciates the flexibility of the 8-week online classes at ICC. Taking one course at a time helps her stay on track toward her degree while balancing work, family, and her passion for art.
“With how easy it is to finish your degree quickly, there is just so much convenience. It’s so easy to obtain your degree here. There are so many different possibilities for you, from the certificates to the transfer credits. ICC is a great option to find your place,” she reflects.
One class pushed her outside her comfort zone in the best way. In Professor Joe Chianakas’ online Communications course, Eliza was assigned a persuasive speech. She filmed herself giving a live presentation at the Peoria Art Guild—promoting its services and encouraging membership. To her surprise, Professor Chianakas attended in person. That moment gave her the confidence to embrace public speaking, a skill she now uses in both her personal and professional life.
Through ICC, Eliza has discovered not just a new career path, but a calling. She plans to earn her bachelor’s degree and expand her work in art therapy, bringing stress relief techniques to schools, organizations, and workplaces.
To anyone considering ICC, she has one question: “What’s holding you back?”