Jerral Platt is among the hundreds of ACC students who will participate in the college's first December commencement.

Jerral Platt is on the cusp of graduation – and a brand new career.

The Elgin resident started at ACC in 2007, when a downturn in the semiconductor industry forced a change in his career path. A friend suggested Platt look into the Sonography Program at ACC. When he did, he found his passion. Platt finished his coursework this semester, and, best of all, he won’t have to wait until this spring to celebrate his accomplishment at graduation.

“I feel like I just finished running a marathon, and now I can relax,” Platt says. “There are a lot of feelings, but I’m mostly thankful for the experience. I can’t wait to hold that diploma in my hands.”

Platt is among the hundreds of ACC students who will participate in the college’s first December commencement. The graduation ceremony is set for Friday, Dec. 14, at 6 p.m. at the Frank Erwin Center (1701 Red River St.).

“We’ve seen so much growth at ACC, it just made sense to add a second graduation ceremony,” says Dr. Richard Rhodes, ACC president/CEO. “Graduation is such a major milestone, and we want as many students and families as possible to celebrate with us.”

This fall, more than 1,200 ACC students applied for graduation – a 30 percent increase from the previous year. The number of graduation applicants has doubled since fall 2007.

“The college is committed to helping students reach their goals and increasing awareness of the importance of graduation,” says Dr. Rhodes. “These numbers are a reflection of our efforts in this area, and we are looking forward to honoring our graduates at commencement.”

After graduation, Jerral Platt will be registered as a diagnostic cardiac sonographer. He already has a few job prospects. Meanwhile, he has some words of wisdom for students working toward graduation.

“My advice to ACC students would be to stay focused on your goals, seek help from your peers and instructors when needed, and surround yourself with supportive people,” Platt says. “Oh, and don’t forget to get some sleep.”

Platt knows all about the need for sleep – his road to graduation was a balancing act. While pursuing his associate degree, he got married, bought a house, and worked full time.

“Luckily for me, I have a very supportive and loving wife,” says Platt. “If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t have made it.”

Now it’s his turn to support her – Platt’s wife plans to enroll at ACC’s new Elgin Campus when it opens next fall.

Graduates and guests are invited to a post-ceremony reception at the Erwin Center. For more details on the graduation ceremony, visit austincc.edu/graduation.