I'm originally from Nigeria.
I came to Gallaudet University in 1978
because during that time
the belief in Nigeria was that deaf people could not go to college.
Deaf people weren't allowed to enroll
despite how bright they were and the exams they passed.
People would say, "You're deaf. What will you do? Why go to college?"
That was then in 1978,
but now,
there has been a huge change.
Nigeria University currently accepts
any qualified deaf students
all because of
Gallaudet's example.
They see that many Nigerians
have college degrees from Gallaudet.
It's helped them understand that deaf people
can get a college education
and be productive people.
It is an example of what
Gallaudet is to the world.
As dean,
I am reminded everyday
that Gallaudet is a model for the world.
I would strongly advise all students
who come to Gallaudet to participate in activities.
Take advantage of them.
Play intercollegiate sports.
If you're unable to, then at least participate in intramurals.
Don't just sit in your room,
watch TV, and play on your computer.
Get out there and socialize.
Make friends, join activities, look for a position—
maybe not necessarily become a leader, but
join an organization as a member at first
and then move up to the top.
Be involved. Be active.
Get that full, well-rounded college experience.
That will help develop you as a whole person.
Passion for knowledge,
passion for broadening knowledge,
passion for exploring—
that quality will make any
college experience a successful one.
If students don't have that trait,
they'll find it difficult to study, or even find
the motivation to read a dense college textbook.
However, with that thirst for knowledge,
they'll be motivated to go to classes, ask questions,
participate in discussions,
which will do wonders for them and
make their college experience
much more beneficial.
So my advice to students
is they should develop a
a strong passion for knowledge.
You know about the testimonials
from Gallaudet alumni and
how they absolutely cherish Gallaudet.
They keep saying, "Gallaudet is my home."
Here and everywhere, "My home."
"My home."
The sentiment is restated time and again.
Although they have a home and
a community elsewhere,
Gallaudet is also their home because
their experiences here, I believe,
have been very positive.
They came here to graduate,
made friends,
networked, and
bonded with the professors they encountered.
These experiences together made a profound impact
and truly molded them.
So after they've graduated and left,
it's ingrained in their memory
and they don't forget
because it's Gallaudet
that really shaped them.
They feel connected here.
They cherish this place
because of the
experiences that we provide.
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