Indian River State College Recognizes Michael Vargas as Spring 2025 Military and Veterans Services (MVS) Student Spotlight

"I'm deeply honored to receive this recognition from Indian River State College,” said Vargas. “This journey from military service to academic success has shown me that with the right support system and determination, you can achieve anything.”

During his five years of service, Vargas completed two combat tours - serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom with Special Operations, where he operated Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) combat vehicles. His time in Afghanistan proved especially meaningful, as he witnessed the immediate impact of his unit's missions in combating terrorist activities and protecting local communities.  After transitioning from military service, Vargas built a successful decade-long career in executive protection. However, when COVID-19 impacted his industry, he embraced the opportunity for change. Encouraged by his wife and guided by her suggestion, he enrolled at Indian River State College to pursue his associate in arts degree in Engineering, where he has excelled academically with a 3.60 GPA.

Now 35 and balancing his studies with family, security work, and roofing consultation, Vargas approaches his education with the same discipline he brought to his military service, treating school as a full-time job. His academic success has surprised even himself - having transformed from an average high school student to making the honor roll multiple times at Indian River State College.

"I would absolutely recommend Indian River State College to other veterans,” said Vargas.


Michael Vargas drove MRAP vehicles during five years of service in Afghanistan.

Vargas credits much of his success to the support he's received from Indian River State College's Military and Veterans Services office, particularly highlighting the guidance of Veteran Student Success Coordinator Camilo Medina. He values the sense of brotherhood and understanding he finds among fellow veterans on campus, noting how important it is to have mentors who understand the unique perspectives and needs of veteran students.

“The Veterans Services office really gets what we're going through, and having mentors like Camilo Medina who understand the veteran perspective is invaluable,” he added. “There's a real sense of brotherhood here. It's not just a college; it's a community that supports veterans in achieving their goals."

Indian River State College's Military and Veterans Services department is dedicated to supporting military veterans, active-duty service members, and their dependents in achieving their educational goals. The office provides comprehensive assistance with accessing VA educational benefits, including help with completing necessary paperwork and understanding eligibility requirements under various GI Bill programs. Located on the main campus in Fort Pierce, Florida, the Veterans Services team offers personalized guidance through the enrollment process, academic advising specific to veterans' needs, and assistance with military transcript evaluation. The department also serves as a valuable resource hub, connecting student veterans with other campus services and local veterans organizations. The department maintains a Veterans Center where students can study, socialize with fellow veterans, and access computers and other academic resources.

"The support of my family and Indian River State College staff has been incredibly motivating in pushing me forward to excel in all my classes,” said Vargas. “Having people who believe in you and understand your journey makes all the difference."

Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College, praised Vargas's achievements and dedication to academic excellence.  "Michael Vargas exemplifies the extraordinary qualities our veteran students bring to Indian River State College. His transition from decorated combat veteran to honor roll student, while balancing family and work responsibilities, demonstrates the remarkable dedication and perseverance that makes our veteran students so valuable to our campus community." 

Indian River State College is honored to recognize Michael Vargas as the Spring 2025 Military and Veterans Services Student Spotlight, celebrating his achievements and contributions to both the College and the broader community.