Johnny Vialona Garcia is a first-generation college student. Johnny is pursuing an associate degree in Sociology at Palomar College, hoping to transfer to Cal State San Marcos after. Johnny grew up in Oceanside, California, and her ancestors come from a village in Fiti’uta on the Manu’a Islands of American Samoa. Raised by a single mother and supported by her grandparents, aunts, and uncles, their sacrifices and teachings inspire her to create opportunities for future generations. For the past eleven years, her experiences as a wife and mother have fueled her passion, highlighting the significance of healing and resilience. Her cultural values of faith, family, and community contribute into her identity as a scholar, a role she approaches with deep honor.  She takes pride in her culture and aims to blend her educational passion with her cultural heritage.