Finish Line Scholar | SBVC Class of '26

Born in Los Angeles and raised across Southern California, Ray Avie Jr. settled in San Bernardino in 2010 and enrolled at San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) full time in 2023. Now a proud STEM student at SBVC, Ray is on track to graduate with degrees in mathematics and physics by 2026.

As a full time employee at HD Supply, Ray juggled demanding work hours, rent, bills, and school, all without initial financial aid support. That's when the Finish Line Scholars Program made all the difference.

A U.S. Merchant Marine veteran, Ray has also found community at SBVC, even though his veteran status doesn't qualify for full benefits. "I still stop by the VRC," he said, "and the STEM Center really feels like a home on campus."

Now, with just a few courses left, Ray plans to complete both degrees and transfer to a four year university, possibly to pursue electrical engineering, inspired by his time working shipyards overseas.

"When I got the Finish Line scholarship, it was a huge relief," Ray said. "I had been paying for school materials and books out of pocket. That support helped me pay down credit cards, catch up on expenses, and focus on school without the stress."

With a 3.48 GPA and plans to graduate in Spring 2026, Ray is proof that resilience, community support, and scholarships like Finish Line can help students succeed.

Ray Avie Jr. poses with arms crossed