From GED to College: How an Ivy Tech Indy Student is Breaking Cycles and Building Dreams Through Education

At 35, Shawna Martindale’s life story reflects resilience, determination, and an unrelenting desire to create a better future for herself and her son. 

An adult learner pursuing a degree in business administration at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, Martindale is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. Her path to higher education has been marked by significant life challenges, but her ability to adapt and persevere stands as an inspiration to those around her.

A Challenging Start

Martindale’s early life was tumultuous, characterized by frequent moves, an unstable family environment, and limited role models. Moving between Texas, Indiana, and even Utah, her education was sporadic. 

“I wasn’t very good at reading and fell behind in school,” she recalls, highlighting the compounding effects of her unstable upbringing.

Becoming a mother at 15 pushed her to grow up quickly. Despite the chaos, Martindale began developing a deep sense of responsibility. 

“I knew I didn’t want my son to grow up in the same environment I did,” she shares.

A New Chapter

After years of navigating personal challenges—including the loss of both parents and a problematic relationship—Martindale began to find stability. Moving back to Indiana, she took control of her life, securing her GED while working multiple jobs to support her son. Her turning point came when she realized the importance of setting a solid example. 

“The statistics stuck with me—kids often follow their mother’s education level. I didn’t want my son to face the same challenges I did,” she said.

Her work experience, especially in administrative roles within the medical field, gave her insights into business operations. However, the demanding nature of her work during the pandemic took its toll, pushing her to consider a career change. 

"I wanted to focus on something that would bring me happiness, not just a paycheck," she says.

Ivy Tech: A Path Forward

Martindale’s decision to enroll at Ivy Tech Indianapolis marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in her life. After years of instability and personal challenges, she was drawn to Ivy Tech for its accessibility, supportive environment, and practical pathways to career advancement. 

“I’d heard about Ivy Tech before, but it wasn’t until my life hit a reset point that I realized it was time to focus on myself and my future,” Martindale said.

Starting her college journey as a first-generation student presented unique challenges. 

“I didn’t know how college worked at all,” Shawna admits. “Understanding credit hours, navigating financial aid, and even using online platforms like Canvas—it was overwhelming at first.” 

Her initial experiences included missteps, such as misunderstanding assignment deadlines, but instead of being discouraged, she used these moments as learning opportunities. 

“It’s a big adjustment when you’ve been out of school for so long, but I realized that every mistake was part of the process of figuring it out.”

Martindale chose to pursue a degree in business administration because of its alignment with her skills and long-term career goals. After years of administrative work in the medical field, she realized she wanted to apply her talents in a new direction. 

“The pandemic changed everything. It made me realize that I didn’t just want a job; I wanted a career that could bring me both fulfillment and stability,” Martindale shared.

Now in her first year, Martindale is excelling in her studies while balancing the demands of adult life. She credits Ivy Tech’s flexible scheduling and accessible resources for helping her stay on track. 

“I’m discovering what I’m capable of, and it feels amazing to have this opportunity to grow,” Martindale shared.

Through the ups and downs of her journey, Martindale’s perspective has evolved. 

“For the first time, I feel like I’m building a foundation for something permanent. This degree isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s a symbol of everything I’ve worked for and everything I’m determined to achieve.”

As she continues her studies, Martindale is excited about the doors her education will open. 

“This isn’t just about getting a degree—it’s about proving to myself and my son that no matter what life throws at you, it’s never too late to change your story.”

She credits her ability to stay organized and her relentless drive for her success so far. 

“I’m dedicated because I want to create a legacy of stability and achievement for my family.”

Martindale’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others facing similar challenges. 

“If I can do it, so can others. You just have to take it one step at a time,” Martindale shared. 

As she continues her studies at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, Shawna is not only shaping a new future for herself but also proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination and support, anything is possible.

MEET ANOTHER ADULT LEARNER: Champaigne Patterson, a mobile laundry owner