Reflecting on the unique circumstances as a first-generation college student brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, Villegas Ruiz observed, "Unfortunately and fortunately, due to COVID-19, many colleges offered online programs. I would recommend to other Latinos who may be in a similar situation to myself to look into community colleges as they are cheaper and offer many online programs. Some even provide free tuition and books now, costing only a quarter of university education.
Dr. Garcia's educational career began with an associate’s degree from San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC), where he majored in Spanish. His college career was interrupted by the Korean War, during which he served in the U.S. Air Force.