Ivianna Giuliano

Dual Degree student Ivianna Giuliano of River Grove is graduating from Triton College this spring with both her high school diploma and associate degree.

Through Triton’s Early College Program, high school students can earn both high school and college credits at the same time, giving them a head start on completing a college degree.

As one of Illinois’ 48 community colleges, Triton College is committed to increasing access to higher education by preparing high school students for college-level coursework and reducing college costs, helping them finish their degrees more efficiently.

Giuliano’s high school, East Leyden High School, offered her the opportunity to attend Triton as a full-time Dual Degree student. Recognizing the value of earning both her high school diploma and associate degree, she saw it to save money and get ahead academically.

“A Triton College education is priceless,” she said. “It has been a steppingstone for my academic career and truly incredibly valuable.”

This fall, Giuliano plans to attend Lewis University to study Aviation Maintenance Technology, with the goal of becoming an airplane mechanic for a major airline. She credits Triton’s Transfer Center for helping her find the university that best aligned with her academic and career aspirations.

“Pat and Ian in the Transfer Center helped me find universities that offered programs for airplane mechanics,” she said. “They identified the best schools that would meet my needs.”

Giuliano encourages other students not to feel overwhelmed by the college and transfer process, noting that the Transfer Center is there to assist with all aspects of the journey.

“The Transfer Center put my mind at ease when looking at four-year universities,” she said. “Their guidance, advising and support have put me on the right path.”