By Aidan Vann – Volunteer Engagement Ambassador
Thomas Ray is a first-generation college junior majoring in Environmental Science and Resource Management. His academic journey has been shaped by curiosity, community connection, and a growing commitment to environmental stewardship. What began as an unexpected fascination with environmental topics in his business courses quickly evolved into a deeper sense of purpose that now guides his studies and involvement on campus.
Discovering Direction Through Experience
Thomas’s shift toward environmental work began when he joined Ventura College’s Environmental and Outdoor Student Organization. Participating in field projects, including a meaningful habitat restoration effort on Anacapa Island, helped him recognize how rewarding hands-on conservation work could be. These experiences allowed him to see the impact of his efforts both on the environment and on the communities connected to it.
Volunteering soon became a central part of his college experience. It offered opportunities to grow personally, develop confidence, and explore new environments. Through service, he learned practical skills, built relationships, and strengthened his understanding of how people and ecosystems rely on one another. Each experience broadened his perspective and shaped the direction of his academic and career goals.
Building Community Through Service
Thomas’s passion for service naturally led him to the Volunteer Engagement Ambassador role with 91ÊÓƵ’s Center for Community Engagement, where he helps other students find meaningful ways to get involved in the community. Having experienced how transformative volunteering can be, he is driven to support others as they explore their interests, discover new strengths, and develop a sense of belonging.
Drawing from his own service experiences, from observing wildlife on the way to a project, working alongside environmental professionals, or joining hundreds of volunteers at large community events, Thomas uses storytelling to show peers how fulfilling and dynamic volunteering can be. He encourages students to view service not as a requirement, but as an opportunity for exploration, connection, and growth.
Through this role, he has strengthened his communication, leadership, and organizational skills. Coordinating Serve It Up! Events and engaging with diverse student groups has helped him become more adaptable and confident in collaborative settings. These experiences have prepared him to take on greater responsibilities in both environmental work and community-focused initiatives.
Looking Ahead
Every volunteer opportunity, from food recovery programs to supporting animal care at the Channel Islands National Park Marine Exhibit, has added depth to Thomas’s understanding of environmental systems and community needs. Even experiences that initially seemed unrelated to his long-term plans have helped him develop valuable skills, discover new interests, and broaden his perspective.
As he prepares for graduate studies in marine ecology, Thomas is motivated by the complexity and interconnectedness of marine environments. He is eager to explore how ecosystems function, how human activity shapes marine life, and how conservation efforts can support healthier, more resilient oceans.
For Thomas, the future is grounded in curiosity, service, and a commitment to understanding and protecting the natural world—one experience, one community, and one connection at a time.