Growing up, Avian Garcia never considered going to college. A close family member convinced the Hatfield resident to pursue higher education, and in the fall of 2018, he started classes at Montgomery County Community College.

“College wasn’t a priority in my family,” he said. “I didn’t really think it was for me, but when I started taking classes, I really started to see the value in a college education.”

As a Liberal Studies major, Garcia was able to discover new interests through the different classes he took. Before his time at Montco, Garcia never expected to take classes in art, ceramics or psychology, but the open structure of his major exposed him to unfamiliar topics that he might not have found otherwise. Despite never having an interesting in performing, his time in Introduction to Theater opened his mind to a new path.

Garcia’s eagerness to try new things is appreciated by his fellow students and the professors at Montco.

“Avian is one of the most thoughtful students I've had the pleasure of working with,” said Assistant Theater Professor Tim Gallagher. “His curiosity and active listening are topped only by his compassion and support of others. He not only elevates his classmates but his engagement helps you become a better teacher.”

Garcia was chosen to receive the 2019 Montgomery County Coaches Hall of Fame scholarship. The $2,000 scholarship will help Garcia complete his education at Montco and achieve his goals. The Liberal Studies major plans to graduate from Montco in the summer of 2020 and continue his education at Temple University, where he plans to pursue a path in the film industry.

Garcia is grateful to Montgomery County Coaches Hall of Fame Board of Directors for this scholarship, which allows him to continue focusing on his education.

“I really appreciate being chosen for this scholarship,” Garcia said. “I am thankful for the opportunities to explore different subjects at Montco and learn what I like. As somebody who did not know what subject I was interested in or which career to pursue, choosing a community college was the smartest option for me.”