Shout out to Citrus College student Ruby Kaiso D'Bansour, who shared her Citrus story with the campus community at Convocation prior to the start of the fall semester.

Born and raised in Syria, Ruby holds a bachelor's degree in French literature and speaks fluent French and Arabic. After moving to the United States to live with her daughter, she enrolled in noncredit classes at Citrus College. "I realized it was necessary for me to learn English so that I could communicate with people and be able to function in society," Ruby said. "My daughter helped me enroll because she was also a student here."

It didn't take long for Ruby to feel comfortable on campus. "I first noticed the kindness of the noncredit staff, with their smiling faces. I was also impressed by the beauty and cleanliness of the campus," she said. "I consider the school my second home because I feel the warmth and attention from everyone: secretaries, teachers and classmates. Everyone is very helpful and encouraging."

According to Ruby, the noncredit classroom experience is unique. "My classmates have been great and are all willing to help," she said. "Since most of us are immigrants from different countries, we initially tried to communicate with each other using the simplest phrases and even some sign language."

Ruby also found the staff to be helpful. "My first noncredit instructor was Robert Kinder. I liked him because he made sure to give us clear explanations," she said. "I love all of the other staff too. Whenever I have a problem, the counselors and secretaries listen to me, give me advice and push me to improve myself."

With the help of this support system, Ruby has been able to learn English and, as a result, she got a job. "This allowed me to have some financial independence, which is such an important thing for immigrants to have," she said. Ruby has also obtained a driver's license and bought a car. "Now I can drive to work and come to school every day," she said. "I have accomplished all of this thanks to the Citrus College Continuing Education Department."

And Ruby isn't stopping there. Her goal is to obtain her high school diploma in the United States and ultimately enroll in a college public relations or nursing program. As an artist, she also hopes to improve her skills by studying in one of the college's fine arts programs.

"All in all, I would like to thank my instructors, our noncredit director Ivon McCraven and Citrus College for the opportunities they have given me," Ruby said. "I love studying here and having the chance to meet people who care about me and about my future."

Thank you for allowing Citrus College to be part of your journey, Ruby. We can't wait to see what your future holds!