Andrew Garcia '20

Celebrate First-Gen: Andrew Garcia '20, MBA '22

Photo of Andrew Garcia

I went to college to obtain the dream that neither of my parents could.

Andrew Garcia '20, MBA '22
Assistant Director, Academic Support

What does being a first-generation college graduate mean to you? 

Being a first-generation college student to me means navigating uncharted waters and needing to lean on your community to succeed. When I was a first-year student I knew I wanted to acclimate just as all the other students who had family members who went to college before them. To do this I knew I needed to make connections on campus and learn more about the resources available. Eventually, this ended with me being a lead with the office of campus life, and the student body president in 2019. I had difficulty in navigating financial aid due to the various steps it entails, but the team here at Saint Martin’s made sure I got the support I needed. My proudest achievements as a first-gen student were making the dean’s list each semester, interning at Harvard University, and working with the student government to start the conversation for a new student union building.

Why did you go to college? 

I went to college to obtain the dream that neither of my parents could. I wanted to enhance my education so that I could work on making education accessible as a career.

What resources were most helpful for you?  

Campus Life was incredibly helpful in helping me acclimate to the community. I was a commuter and a first-gen student. I felt like an oddball out, but Campus Life ensured we had events to bridge the gap. Also, my advisor. Shout out to Dr. Armer for advising me over the last 6 years. Pro tip: always make an appointment with your advisor on advising day!

How did this experience shape and inform the work you do now? 

My education now has led me to work on making education accessible to all those who strive for it. This comes through in my retention work as Assistant Director of Academic Support.

Graduate

Master of Business Administration

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at Saint Martin's University is designed to be both flexible and accommodating for students with or without an existing business degree. The goal is to meet the needs of professionals seeking to leverage their undergraduate degree, knowledge, skills, and experience.

Campus
  • Main (Lacey)
  • Saint Martin's-JBLM
Type of Instruction
  • Hybrid
  • In Person
  • Online
Degree
  • Master
  • Master (4+1)