For the first time in Cerritos College history the Carmen Solis-Pratt Scholarship was awarded to a male student, Raymond Perris.

The scholarship was given by the Cerritos College Foundation on November 14.

While growing up Perris attended special education classes but because of his dyslexia, the information “did not stick” said Perris.

At age 40, he realized that his life was not what he wanted it to be so he headed back to school.

Perris said that his view of life has changed and attending Cerritos College has allowed him to see that he can overcome dyslexia.

Perris has several goals for his future. He wants to learn to read, write, and learn basic math functions to get his G.E.D.

“My desire is to receive my G.E.D. and to one day become a full-time counselor in a drug rehabilitation center for men and women,” said the reentry student.

Perris was chosen among 39 other students.

The scholarship was established by Judge Dan Pratt, a Cerritos College Foundation member, in honor of his mom.

According to Kimberly Corbitt, administrator of the scholarships and alumni relations, the scholarship was chosen by Pratt.