Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I have a bit of a unique story, so here goes. I attended Rockford Lutheran High School and was going to graduate in 1987. That's right, 27 years ago. Due to an unfortunate incident I left Rockford Lutheran and never finished high school. Last year I contacted my former school to see if there was any way I could still graduate. The people at Rockford Lutheran, especially the principal, were so helpful and referred me to Ignite Christian Academy. I only needed three classes to finish and I am half way through the last one now.
What is your favorite part of studying online as a non-traditional student?
Working online gives me the flexibility to work whenever I want. I feel like the curriculum is solid and easy to actually learn. English 4B is the class I am finishing up now. This English class has really forced me to think deeply. Most importantly, all of my teachers have been wonderful to work with. They are always flexible and quick to respond.
Is there anything you've encountered while studying at ICA that has surprised you?
The only surprise I have found is how deep Shakespeare's Hamlet is. I must have read Hamlet 10 times before I finally got it. Animal Farm was a great book too.
Your teachers describe you as disciplined and determined. What motivates you to be such a diligent student?
I have had a very disciplined and determined mind in approaching this finish line. When I finish a lesson I get pumped and want to immediately get to the next one. It took me a long time to figure out that it's not in my best interest to put things off, so I am in attack mode when it comes to finishing my classes successfully.
Describe your hobbies and interests.
When I am not working on my classes I enjoy spending time with my family. I am married and have two kids, a 9-year-old son and a 12-year-old daughter. I like to play golf and watch my kids participate on their sporting teams. My son plays football, and my daughter plays volleyball and swims on the swim team.
Of what accomplishment in life are you most proud?
My greatest accomplish in life was when I made the decision to live my life according to God and His will for me! When I chose to put God first everything else just seemed to fall into place.
What are your future plans and dreams?
My plans for the future are to continue to work in the sales industry as I have for the past 25 years, to love God and my family, and maybe someday sit on a beach and take a break for a little bit.
If you could offer a bit of advice to fellow ICA students, what would it be?
My advice for fellow ICA students would be to finish what you start. Be good to people and don't let the mistakes you may have made earlier in life define you. Through God everything is possible!