Student Voices: How the VR&E is Fueling My Success

My name is Carrington Allen, and I'm in my second year at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, on track to

graduate in August 2026. I’m pursuing dual degrees in business administration, while my secondary is visual communications. I chose this combination of degrees to fuel my dream of launching a clothing brand that blends entrepreneurial savvy with creative design.  

My path to Ivy Tech wasn’t linear. Instead of going to college right after high school graduation in 2019, I took an alternative route and joined the United States Air Force. Nothing was stopping me from starting my higher education whilst being on active duty, but I simply did not know what direction I wanted to take my life in at that time. It wasn’t until post-separation in 2023, where I felt compelled to look into my options. I knew earning a degree would give me the tools to chase my goals with purpose – not just hope for the best in my twenties. 

That’s when I discovered the Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) program, which supports veterans with service-connected disabilities in preparing for and maintaining meaningful careers. After qualifying for the program, I was paired with an education counselor who became my compass. They helped me chart a career path, choose my majors, and step confidently into my first semester. Thanks to their guidance—and the VR&E program’s full funding of my education—I’ve been able to focus entirely on growth, not debt. Knowing this support will continue even after I transfer from Ivy Tech gives me incredible peace of mind.

Of course, I owe just as much to Ivy Tech itself. From day one, this institution’s affordability and accessibility have lifted barriers for me. But beyond practicality, it’s the culture of encouragement here that’s shaped my journey. Faculty, staff, and peers have all made me feel seen and supported—a stark contrast to the uncertainty I once felt. I remember in October 2024 when I was going through a really stressful time in my life, and I had a lot of things to get off my chest. I reached out to the Counseling and Wellness Center on the Indianapolis campus and was able to get free mental health counseling and therapy for as long as I needed. Those 60-minute sessions helped me immensely, and I was able to get through that semester without completely combusting. Sometimes, all you need is someone you can vent to without bias or judgment. Their team of counselors will happily do that and support you along the way.

As I work toward graduation, I’m reminded that every challenge I’ve overcome—from military service to reinventing myself as a student—has prepared me to build the future I envision. Ivy Tech isn’t just a stepping stone; it’s where I learned to trust my ability to rise.

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.