As someone who had worked tirelessly at Universal Studios seven days a week, the idea of stepping into a classroom again, especially one focused on a trade he had never formally studied, felt like a big leap. Returning to school after more than a decade was intimidating, but it was a leap Luis Garcia knew he needed to take.
At first, time was his greatest obstacle. Between the demands of full-time work and coursework, something had to give. Thankfully, his management team supported his decision and adjusted his work schedule so he could attend UEI College in Reseda and fully commit to the HVAC program. That shift gave him the structure he needed to begin succeeding in the classroom.
Luis also battled test anxiety. “I used to cram everything in the night before and just overwhelm myself,” he admitted. With support from his instructors and some trial and error, he developed new habits like preparing days in advance and focusing on steady progress instead of perfection. Over time, the anxiety started to lift, and confidence took its place.
After sustaining an injury that left him with limited mobility in his left foot, Luis found himself struggling to keep up with hands-on projects. That’s when his instructors and classmates, Kevin, Damien, and Mariah, stepped up. They helped him navigate the lab, carry materials, and adapt to the physical demands of the training. Their support transformed what could have been an isolating experience into one of community and resilience.
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The diverse stories of his classmates have also made a lasting impact on Luis. “Some of them were bartenders, some came straight from high school, others wanted to give their families a better life,” he said. “Hearing their stories motivates me. It reminds me that we’re all here because we want more for ourselves.”
One of Luis’s most memorable lessons came from building a small air conditioning unit in class. “We learned to bend copper piping and create a functional cooling system with limited resources,” he shared. “That project taught me to adapt and think creatively, skills I’ll carry with me into the field.”
Looking back, Luis has no regrets, only gratitude for the chance to grow. If he could speak to his past self on day one, he’d say, “Don’t be nervous. This is for your future and for your family. You’re not alone. You have support here.”
With his expected graduation date later this year, Luis is focused on finishing strong and entering the HVAC field with both technical skill and perseverance. UEI College is teaching him a trade, but it also reminded him that with the right support, even the busiest schedules and toughest setbacks can be overcome.
