When Michael Garcia decided to return to school to finish his bachelor’s degree, he knew flexibility would be key. As a full-time professional, father of twins, and military veteran, Michael needed a university that could fit into his busy life without sacrificing quality or rigor. He found exactly that at University of Advancing Technology (UAT).
“I’m an older student with a full-time job and two young kids,” Michael explained. “It was imperative that I had some kind of program that I could be more flexible with.”
Before joining UAT in 2023, Michael studied Product Design at Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids, Michigan. After taking a break, he came across an ad for UAT’s Digital Maker and Fabrication (DMF) degree — and it immediately caught his attention. “Since I was already doing R&D with product design and 3D printing, the program seemed to align with what I was already doing,” he said. “It also gave credibility to the work I was doing professionally.” Now, Michael is pursuing a double major in DMF and Robotics Engineering, merging creativity with technology in true UAT fashion.
While UAT is known for being a 100% STEM university, what really sealed the deal for Michael was the online (now hybrid) structure.“ When I started, the classes were five weeks per module with one or two classes at a time,” he shared. “I really liked that setup. It allowed me to focus and balance my studies with everything else in life.” Today, the hybrid modality follows a seven-and-a-half-week format — a change that Michael has adjusted to easily. “There are pros and cons to both,” he said. “But I still like how it’s structured, and the Teams channels really help us stay connected with other students and instructors.”
One of the highlights of Michael’s experience has been learning from instructors with real-world industry experience. "The instructors have such diverse backgrounds,” he said. “They’ve worked in the fields they teach, and that makes a big difference. It’s not just academic — it’s practical and applicable. Now in his senior year, Michael continues to enjoy collaborating with professors across both his majors.
For students thinking about transferring to UAT during National Transfer Student Week, Michael’s message is clear: “It’s been a really great experience,” he said. “UAT offers a flexible and supportive environment that fits different lifestyles, and you still get to be part of a connected community — even if you’re across the country.”
As a veteran, Michael also praised UAT’s financial aid team for their help navigating benefits. “The financial aid office has been great with the GI Bill,” he said. “Even when the modality changed formats, my aid stayed consistent. They make sure everything is handled before the semester starts.”
From Michigan, Michael continues to represent what makes UAT special — innovation, community, and the drive to keep learning, no matter where life takes you.
Interested in transferring to UAT?
Learn more about how you can join a 100% STEM university built for innovators, makers, and lifelong learners. Visit uat.edu to explore degree options and connect with our admissions team today!