She Came Back Ready: Amy’s Path to Respiratory Therapy
Amy’s path to a career in respiratory therapy wasn’t a straight line, but we were always there when she was ready to take the next step.
After moving to Peoria in 2008, Amy first enrolled at ICC while working, unsure of what she wanted to pursue. When a promotion shifted her focus, she stepped away from classes. But the goal of earning a degree never left.
Years later, as a mother, Amy returned with a renewed sense of purpose. She completed her general education courses and began preparing for a healthcare program, but life presented new challenges. When her son became ill, Amy needed a more flexible path that would allow her to support her family while continuing her education.
We made that possible.
Amy earned her associate’s degree in general studies online, proving to herself that she could keep going, even in difficult circumstances.
Once her son’s health improved, Amy knew it was time to return. This time, she was ready to fully commit.
After exploring her options, the Respiratory Therapy Program stood out as the right fit. With her children as motivation and a clear sense of direction, she applied, was accepted, and stepped into a new chapter.
I’m older now. Failing is not an option. I have to keep going, for them and for me.
Amy, Respiratory Therapy Student
At ICC, Amy found more than a program. She found a community that believed in her.
Faculty members like Professor Sondra Schaffer created an environment where students feel supported, encouraged, and challenged to succeed. Through hands-on clinical experiences and guidance from instructors like Melissa Dries, Amy gained real-world insight and confidence in her abilities.
Her experiences across multiple clinical sites have broadened her perspective and helped her envision the future she is building for herself and her family.
After graduation, Amy is prepared to step into her career with confidence and purpose.
It’s never too late to start over, pursue a new direction, or return to a goal that once felt out of reach. For Amy, ICC has been more than a college. It has been a place she could return, rebuild, and keep moving forward, no matter where life led her.
Amy puts it simply: Take advantage of the resources at ICC. They won’t let you fail. They’re there for you: to support you, to help you, to guide you.