By Mia Hanuska
Unlike what many people may believe, Deaf and hard of hearing people do have the ability to learn!* However much they excel, public schools can be difficult for them as constant lip-reading is strenuous and especially hard in group settings. This is why many hearing impaired students opt for private deaf schools where subjects are taught in ASL, or American Sign Language. College is no exception, and one great option for them is Gallaudet University.
Founded in 1856 as the first ever university for the hearing impaired, Gallaudet University’s charter was signed by Abraham Lincoln himself. The school teaches a mere 1,500 students, and each class is taught in ASL and/or English with less than 20 students. Located just a couple streets away from the United States Capitol in Washington DC, the campus is only 99 acres, leading to a small and tight-knit student body.
If you’re a senior and deaf or hard of hearing (or hearing and know ASL), consider applying to Gallaudet University. With a high acceptance rate of 59%, top majors include foreign language, literature, business, psychology, and (surprise surprise) deaf studies. The campus is beautiful and in a great location. Keep it in mind when looking at colleges, and if you’re in the area, stop by and check it out!
*Please note that I am hard of hearing 🙂