An adult learner on finding the right degree, pace, and space

At 34, a husband, father of two, and full-time business development professional, Ken Coats is balancing family, career, and education as a business administration student at Ivy Tech Indianapolis. After overcoming struggles with substance use and starting fresh, Coats returned to school determined to achieve his goal of earning a degree and building a brighter future for himself and his family.

Coats' academic journey began with an incomplete first attempt at college. Struggles with substance use in his 20s led him to step away from higher education. 

“I wasn’t ready for college back then,” Coats shared. “But now, with six years of sobriety, a supportive wife, and two young children, I’m in a completely different place.”

Encouraged by his wife and driven by personal goals, Coats returned to school in 2020, initially pursuing psychology, as he passionately works in the addiction treatment industry. However, after some reflection, he shifted to business administration, a choice aligning with his current role in business development at a substance use treatment center. 

“I realized I didn’t want to work directly with people as a therapist. Instead, I wanted to learn how to manage a company—maybe even run a treatment center someday,” Coats said. 

Balancing full-time work, a growing family, and school has not been easy. 

Coats candidly described the challenges of time management, often taking semesters off or reducing his course load to part-time. For Coats, taking his time is not a sign of delay but a testament to the fact that everyone’s journey is different, and Ivy Tech’s flexible offerings secure him in that knowledge.

“I should probably be done with my bachelor’s by now,” he said. “But I’ve learned it’s better to go slow and finish than rush and risk not completing it.”

Through Ivy Tech, Coats has found the support he needs. Online classes allow him to work around his busy schedule, and the TRIO program has been a valuable resource. 

“They’ve helped me stay on track with scheduling and accountability,” he said. “And I always feel supported, whether it’s through financial aid or professors who respond quickly to questions—even in online courses.”

Coats' experience reflects Ivy Tech’s dedication to adult learners. The institution offers a welcoming, inclusive environment where students of all ages and backgrounds can thrive. From flexible scheduling to affordable tuition, Ivy Tech provides the tools needed to succeed, even for those balancing multiple life roles.

“Ivy Tech has made going back to school possible,” Coats said. “It’s affordable, accessible, and supportive. Without it, I probably wouldn’t have returned to school at all.”

For Coats, education is about more than just career advancement—it’s about achieving a lifelong dream and setting an example for his children. His advice to other adult learners? “Pace yourself and don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s not about finishing quickly—it’s about finishing.”

Coats is on track to earn his associate degree in spring 2026, with plans to transfer to a four-year university and eventually pursue an MBA. His ultimate goal? To become the CEO of a company, a dream fueled by determination and supported by Ivy Tech’s opportunities for adult learners.

Ken Coats’ story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your goals—and Ivy Tech is here to help every step of the way.