First Generation Student Success Stories

STUDENT FINDS INSPIRATION, EXPLORES CULTURE DURING SUMMER IN OSAKA

A chance encounter with a Citrus College Study Abroad flyer led to an unforgettable summer adventure for computer engineering major Dominick Mason. After attending an information session, applying for scholarships and meeting the program's requirements, he spent the month of July studying in Osaka, Japan.

"I always wanted to live somewhere that was different from what I had been used to, so that my worldview would have to change and growth as a person would be necessary," he said. "I can definitely say this trip was one of the best decisions I have made, and it will impact me for the rest of my life."

To help fund his travels, Dominick received a Gilman Scholarship from the U.S. Department of State. Established in 2001, the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship provides merit-based financial support to outstanding American undergraduates seeking to study abroad.

"I learned that I had been selected to receive the scholarship one morning during the spring 2025 semester. Something told me to check my email and, when I did, it was an unforgettable moment," he said. "With the current federal budget situation, I was not sure if the scholarship was still possible. It was a huge relief and eased my financial burden, allowing me to focus on my studies while making my study abroad dreams a reality."

Thanks to the scholarship, Dominick fully immersed himself in Osaka. The experience deepened his appreciation for Japanese culture, as well as everyday convenience and public transportation. From relaxing at an onsen (Japanese hot spring) and enjoying late-night karaoke to trying unique foods like raw chicken, yakitori and authentic ramen, he embraced the city's vibrant lifestyle.

"I expected to learn in the classroom, but what stood out most was how much I learned outside of it through everyday interactions, navigating the city and engaging with the culture," he said. "I was surprised by how welcoming and patient people were, especially when I practiced my Japanese."

While the language barrier in fast-paced situations presented challenges, Dominick overcame them with preparation, mobile apps and a willingness to connect.

"My listening and speaking skills improved the most," he said. "Hearing the language every day pushed me to use what I knew, whether ordering food, asking for directions or chatting with classmates. By the end of the program, I felt more confident holding basic conversations."

Building on the confidence and skills he gained abroad, Dominick will continue pursuing his associate degree from Citrus College. He plans to graduate in 2027, becoming the first person in his family to complete a college degree. He also aims to transfer to a four-year university, with UCLA and Cal Poly Pomona among his top choices.

"Studying in Osaka reinforced my career goal of blending technology with culture. I saw how Japan values both tradition and innovation, and that inspired me to think about how I can bring the same balance into my work in computer engineering," he said. "I am actually considering moving from the United States after school now, even if it's only for a little while."

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DOMINICK'S ORIGINAL STUDENT SUCCESS STORY
ORIGINALLY SHARED TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025

Congratulations to Dominick Mason, a Citrus College computer engineering major who recently received a Gilman scholarship from the U.S. Department of Education.

Launched in 2001, the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship program provides merit-based scholarships to outstanding American undergrads who are interested in studying abroad. Dominick completed a detailed application process that included writing a variety of essays about his background, goals, challenges and more.

"I learned that I had been selected to receive the scholarship one morning during the spring 2025 semester. Something told me to check my email and, when I did, it was an unforgettable moment," he said. "With the current federal budget situation, I was not sure if the scholarship was still possible, so this is a huge relief. It eases my financial burden and allows me to focus on my studies while making my study abroad dream a reality."

A graduate of West Covina High School, Dominick worked as a chef for several years before deciding to make a career change. "Looking back, I realized I wanted to become educated in the traditional sense and satisfy my need for lifelong learning," he said. "I chose Citrus College because of its supportive environment, affordable tuition, proximity and strong transfer pathways to universities like UCLA and Cal Poly Pomona."

Dominick's interest in the Citrus College Study Abroad program began after he saw a campus flyer and attended an information session. "I always wanted to live somewhere that was different from what I had been used to, so that my worldview would have to change and growth as a person would be necessary," he said. "As someone studying Japanese with an interest in cultural immersion, I knew right away that the Osaka summer 2025 option was the perfect fit."

As he prepares to spend four weeks studying in Japan this summer, Dominick says he's ready to embrace the unique cultural experiences. "I'm most excited about experiencing the blend of traditional and modern Japanese culture, especially through fashion and food," he said. "I'm also looking forward to practicing my Japanese in real-life settings."

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