Silas’s Journey From Homeschool to Healthcare at ICC

Silas came to ICC after being homeschooled his entire life. He was determined to continue his education while remaining financially responsible and close to home to continue his involvement in hobbies, clubs, and volunteer work.

With both of his parents having graduated from ICC, Silas takes pride in being the second generation in his family to attend. “ICC provides a very solid foundation for life,” he says.

I enjoy the small classes and direct interactions with professors which helps me stay focused and succeed in my classes.

Silas Mattern

Inspired by his father, a leader at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Silas chose to pursue a career in healthcare. He is currently pursuing an Associate in Science Degree at Illinois Central College, and he is grateful for the support the College offers. His first semester was “a trial by fire,” but Silas found meeting with his professors and utilizing the Academic Support Center helped him “juggle all the new experiences that college involved.”

After benefiting from support himself, Silas was eager to give back. He participated in a mission trip to the Dominican Republic with healthcare professionals, volunteering as a firefighter and certified Emergency Medical Technician. There, he assisted the medical team in a traveling clinic treating underprivileged communities in and around San Juan. Silas credits Professor Melissa Grunow and Dr. Thomas Haner for encouraging him to seize the opportunity to use his education and experience to help others. 

Silas’s dedication and generosity were recognized with his membership in Phi Theta Kappa honor society and selection for the PTK All-Illinois Academic Team. He was pleased to discover academics wasn’t the only factor in selecting nominees; the whole person was considered. For Silas, it was a “joyful realization that my community involvement and efforts have been recognized and are making an impact.”  

Humbled and grateful for the acknowledgment he received from PTK, Silas says this honor will elevate his experience for future academic programs and employers. More importantly, he reflects, “the selection reminded me that committing yourself to your education can lead to opportunities you never thought existed.”

We are confident that Silas has a bright future and are proud to be a part of it.