Raymond Garavito has been selected as the November Student of the Month at Merced College.  Debi Swarts, Counselor for Disabled Student Services nominated Ray and states “he is open, friendly and committed to the well being of others.” Raymond is working toward a certificate in Addiction Studies and plans to obtain an Associate Degree in Human Services. He currently has a GPA of 3.1 and is a member of the honor society Alpha Gamma Sigma.  

It hasn’t been an easy path for Ray.  He was originally from Los Angeles where he lived for thirty-five years and worked as a production welder.  He was married and moved to Merced where he worked for some ranchers.  Raymond lost his wife and one of his sons suddenly.  He reevaluated his life and decided to go back to college.  In addition to his college work he is also taking classes at Castle Adult School to assist him with computer and office technology.  Sylvia Bullock-Richards, Instructor at Merced Adult School noted that Raymond is a motivated student.  “Ray is a student who does not stop until the job is done.”  He possesses a positive attitude and ambition to excel.” 

Raymond is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of the troubled youth population.  He currently is involved with the Atwater and Merced School District which provides training and education for parents of the community about gang violence. In addition he job shadows with Human Services and is learning how to help clients with resources and personal issues. 

 “The reason I selected Merced College is because it is a great educational institution that provided support services I needed as a re-entry student” notes Ray. “It has also provided me wonderful resources to establish a new career goal to meet the needs of my disabilities” He attributes his success to the peaceful environment, professional and supportive instructors.

Raymond will be presented with a certificate at the upcoming Board of Trustees meeting  and will receive a check and special parking pass for the month of November.