Britney Khan is a student of Ivy Tech Community College- Bloomington in Indiana. She is Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s International Vice President for Division III.
Initially, I never considered community college as an option. In the Caribbean, community colleges aren’t as common, and my understanding was shaped by misconceptions online that portrayed them as lesser alternatives to traditional universities. It was when I began researching colleges to pursue my tertiary education, I discovered that community colleges offered a wealth of opportunities that actually aligned perfectly with my goals.
Growing up in Trinidad and Tobago, I saw firsthand the devastating effects of hurricane seasons on my community. This fueled my desire to pioneer projects that support those in poverty and aid disaster victims. Despite this passion, I chose what seemed like a more secure path and pursued a career in IT, drawn by its financial stability and broad applicability across various sectors. However, my desire to work on a global scale soon led me to realize that the United States offered unparalleled opportunities for growth in this field.
That’s when I realized how community colleges in the U.S. could be a crucial stepping stone toward achieving my goals. Ivy Tech Community College, for example, offers over 70 programs, including many within the School of Information Technology. The partnerships with the four-year universities I had initially targeted and the seamless transfer pathways they offered truly impressed me. These partnerships meant I didn’t have to abandon my dream of attending those universities; instead, I could benefit from unique experiences at both types of institutions. Completing my degree at a fraction of the cost, combined with guaranteed pathways to continue my education, was a major advantage. For someone like me, who covers all educational and living expenses independently, this financial practicality made community college an invaluable choice—one that I couldn’t have fully appreciated at the time.
As an international student, moving to the United States came with its own set of challenges. Leaving behind family, friends, and everything familiar to navigate a new environment was overwhelming at times. I had to adapt to a different culture, climate, and way of life while juggling the demands of college academics. I also faced many questions about how the American education system worked and how I would adjust. From the moment I was accepted, the community college offered a robust support system that made this transition smoother. Whether I needed information about scholarships or help with non-academic issues like obtaining student insurance and accessing community resources, the college provided valuable guidance every step of the way.
A success coach pairing proved invaluable during my first semester. They helped me acclimate to my new surroundings and introduced me to various campus organizations and clubs. This involvement allowed me to connect with other students, engage with those who shared my interests, and form initial friendships, including with fellow international students who understood the unique challenges I faced. These clubs and organizations not only fostered a sense of belonging but also provided insight into the local culture and offered a supportive network that was especially important during my initial months.
Without realizing it, smaller class sizes were exactly what I needed. They provided personalized attention from professors and fostered a close-knit community within the classroom. This made it easier to engage in discussions, receive tailored feedback, and connect with both peers and instructors. The flexibility in learning options, including online courses, also made it easier to balance my academic pursuits with other aspects of my life.
My experience with community college went far beyond my expectations, offering hands-on experiences and unique opportunities. A defining moment for me was being selected for a study abroad program in Italy, where I visited a refugee center in Rome. Witnessing the struggles faced by displaced individuals reignited my commitment to humanitarian work. This experience realigned me with my original goal of making a meaningful impact—providing relief and support to vulnerable communities and those in crisis.
Currently, I am pursuing certificates in Global Studies and the Indiana College Core alongside my Associate of Applied Science degree in Informatics. My aim is to transfer and complete a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies.
As an international student, I understand the fear and uncertainty that can come with choosing an educational path in a foreign country. But don’t overlook the value of community college. It was through this experience that I found the support and encouragement needed to reestablish my path and grow toward a meaningful career. Regardless of your career interests, trust that with the right environment and a strong network, your passion and determination can guide you toward your goals. Your journey may be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
