Dr. Fred Omega Garces
Professor of Chemistry
Miramar College, SDCCD
Ph.D. Inorganic Chemistry |
Education:
Columbia University, Postdoc Fellow
UC Santa Barbara, Ph. D. 1988
San Diego State, B.S. 1982
Teaching History
UC Santa Barbara ('91-'93)
Santa Barbara City College('91-'93)
University of San Diego ('93-'96)
San Diego State University (2012)
Miramar College ('95-Present)
Personal Info.
Born: Ormoc City, Philippines
Raised in the island of Guam |
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I was born in the Ormoc City, Lyte, Philippines and relocated to the serene island of Guam (Hafa Adai) when I was just three years old. Throughout my childhood and adolescence, I embraced the warmth of Guam as my true home, where my beloved family still resides. As the second eldest among my five siblings - two brothers and two sisters - I had the opportunity to grow up surrounded by love and support.
In pursuit of my dreams, I made a significant decision before my final year of high school. I moved to California with the intention of establishing residency, enabling me to avoid the burden of out-of-state tuition fees for college. Even when I was in the 11th grade, I already had a clear passion for chemistry and knew that it was the field I wanted to delve into further during my college years.
The significance of education was deeply ingrained in me and my siblings by our parents. They instilled within us the importance of knowledge and learning as we navigated through life. As the first in my family to pursue a college education, I embarked on this academic journey with great determination.
After obtaining my Bachelor of Science degree at San Diego State University, I eagerly ventured into the job market. However, despite my efforts, I faced difficulties in finding suitable employment. Consequently, I applied to graduate school at UC Santa Barbara, where I was fortunate enough to earn my Ph.D. in 1988. Throughout this process, I was fortunate to have the guidance and support of my research advisor and mentor, Dr. Richard J. Watts.
In the winter of 1988, I embraced a new chapter in my life by relocating to Manhattan, NY. I had accepted a prestigious postdoctoral research position at Columbia University under the esteemed guidance of Dr. Nick Turro.
My teaching experience encompasses various roles, including a summer position at UC Santa Barbara and a two-year adjunct position at Santa Barbara City College. In 1993, I gratefully accepted a visiting professorship at the University of San Diego, and two years later, I embarked on a tenure track position at Miramar College.
Throughout my tenure, I have had the privilege of instructing a diverse range of courses, such as Chemistry for nursing majors, Introductory Chemistry, Chemistry and Society, Preparatory Chemistry, Fundamentals of Chemistry, General Chemistry I and II, Chemical Methods of Instrumental Analysis, and Analytical Chemistry.
Belowa is a brief overview of some of the courses I have taught:
Fundamentals of Chemistry (Chemistry 100): This course is specifically designed for allied health students, emphasizing the relevance of chemistry in our daily lives. While my preferred method of instruction is in a traditional classroom setting, I acknowledge the importance of offering this course online. Consequently, I developed a comprehensive online lecture and laboratory curriculum back in the early 2000s. Since 2002, I have successfully conducted Chem 100/100L online, following the IPEX format.
Second Semester General Chemistry (Chem 201): This course explores the physical aspects of chemical reactions, delving into the fascinating realm of kinetics chemistry, equilibrium-based efficiency, thermodynamics governing spontaneity, and electrochemistry concerning electron transfer. It covers a wide range of chemical systems, including aqueous reactions, acid-base reactions, redox reactions, homogeneous and heterogeneous processes, and coordination chemical systems. Throughout this course, we elucidate chemical processes both in terms of descriptive molecular events and the mathematical equations governing them.
Quantitative/Analytical Chemical Analysis (Chem 251) is a comprehensive course that delves into the realm of quantitative chemical analysis, utilizing both classic and instrumental methods. The course is thoughtfully divided into five distinct sections to ensure a comprehensive understanding. These sections include:
-Laboratory techniques and statistical analysis of data: Students will acquire essential skills in laboratory procedures and learn how to analyze and interpret data using statistical methods.
-Classic chemical analysis (wet chemistry): This section explores traditional chemical analysis techniques, providing students with a solid foundation in the principles and applications of wet chemistry.
-Electrochemical analysis: Students will delve into the fascinating realm of electrochemical analysis, examining the principles and methodologies used to analyze chemical systems through electrical processes.
Spectroscopic analysis: This section focuses on spectroscopic techniques, enabling students to explore the interaction of light with matter and how it can be utilized to identify and analyze chemical substances.
-Chromatography: The final section explores chromatographic techniques, providing students with an understanding of separation methods based on differential migration rates, allowing for the identification and analysis of complex mixtures. Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the diverse array of instruments available in the department. For more information on the instruments available at Miramar College, please visit the following link:Department Instrument
•Chemistry in Society (Chem 111) is an engaging class that examines the broad spectrum of chemistry's influence in our world. With a specific focus on the role of chemistry in our society and the well-being of our planet, this course explores various captivating topics. These topics include forensic chemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry, organic chemistry, explosive chemistry, nuclear chemistry, and genetics.
One of the most pressing concerns of our time revolves around the future of our planet if we fail to address the issues of global warming and climate change. This course delves into this critical subject matter, shedding light on the potential consequences society may face in the coming decades if urgent action is not taken.
By exploring the multifaceted relationship between chemistry and our society, this course seeks to deepen students' understanding of the significant impact chemistry has on our daily lives and the potential it holds for shaping our future.
I have a webpage for
all my courses and if you explore that page and follow the links
you will find many resouce that can help you succeed in my course. You will also find a tutorials page, the department instrument page and FOG LINKs which is a collection of useful pages.
