Parents: Mr. Roy Garcia and Dr. Stephanie Garcia
Siblings: Alexis (26), Brianna (23), Arabella (16)
Previous Schools Attended: Villareal Elementary (1-3), Episcopal Day School (K, 4-6), Resaca Middle School
College Planning to Attend: Trinity University
Planned Major: Biochemistry (Pre-Med)
Post-Undergraduate Plans: The University of Texas Health Science Center-UT Health San Antonio Medical School
Teachers Who Inspired Your Goals: Ali Martinez and Avery Danielson
Inspiration for Academic Success: In the summer of 4th grade, my mom told me I had to finish two big books by the end of the summer. At the time, I strongly opposed because all I wanted to do was watch Phineas and Ferb all day. However, my mom would not take no for an answer. So, I ended up reading Little House on the Prairie and Molly Moon. Although I was quite bored at the beginning, I soon got into both books and ended up reading three more that summer. With my newfound love of reading, I was able to make connections at school and have a more positive attitude when it came to learning in general. My mother gave me the push I needed, and I will always be grateful for that.
Study Habits: The Capricorn in me loves a good, organized routine, so my study habits consist of planners, lists, sticky notes, and a lot of colored pens. Over the years, I have found that I work better when I have a plan in mind, so I try to stay ahead of due dates the best that I can. Also, I do not wake up early nor do I go to bed late because sleep is my soulmate. Instead, I do my homework throughout the breaks in my day and just try to do a little bit of it throughout the week.
Career Plans: I will be attending Trinity University in the fall, and I plan on attending medical school afterwards. Once I finish my education, I hope to become a pediatrician. I would absolutely love working with children, and the healthcare profession is the perfect combination of science and service. I would also love to eventually open up my own practice in the Valley to take care of the community that has taken care of me all these years. As a pediatrician, I would make sure these children live healthy lives, and I would allow the parents to feel a sense of security under my care. I know my career would be filled with incredible moments, and I can’t wait to start experiencing them.
Advice to younger students to succeed academically: As I mentioned earlier, my mother is the one who inspired me to do my best in academics my fourth-grade year. However, I did not fully, strongly focus on academics until late middle school. In 8th grade, I noticed the coursework did get more difficult, but it only made me more determined. Therefore, I would advise middle schoolers to face those harder classes head on. It is important to not be afraid of failure, no matter how difficult something might be. If you are able to recognize the importance of your education early on, you will certainly set yourself up for success in the long run!