NCCC Success Story

Hometown: I’m from Silver Springs, Maryland.

Major: I’m pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, graduating in May 2024, and I’ll continue with an Accounting MBA, graduating in May 2025.

Preferred Communication: I use both ASL and spoken English.

Tell me about your high school experience (mainstream, only deaf person, were your friends hearing or deaf or both, how would you describe yourself?):
I attended a mainstream high school with a large deaf program. Out of 1,000 students, about 50 were deaf. I had friendships with both hearing and deaf peers, and I received a lot of support through IEPs (Individualized Education Programs). I’d describe myself as outgoing and motivated.

What process did you use, or what steps did you take, when you were searching for colleges and deciding which one to attend?
When I was searching for colleges, I looked for schools with strong co-op programs and opportunities for real-world experience. I also wanted a place where I could balance the deaf and hearing worlds.

When you were searching for a college, what things were important to you?
I prioritized schools with co-op programs, accessibility, and a strong sense of community. I wanted a place where I could grow both academically and socially.

Why did you choose RIT/NTID?
I chose RIT/NTID because of its incredible accommodations, diverse student life, and the wide range of opportunities it offers. It felt like the perfect place to prepare for my career while staying connected to the deaf community.

How did the way you see yourself as a deaf or hard-of-hearing person influence your decision to enroll at RIT/NTID?
As a deaf person, I wanted to be part of a community where I could feel represented and supported. RIT/NTID offered that balance between the deaf and hearing worlds, which was important to me.

What makes RIT/NTID a good fit for you?
The accessibility at RIT/NTID is unmatched. The technology, note-taking services, captions, and interpreting make it a great environment for me to thrive.

Are there any unique benefits gained at RIT/NTID that you could not find elsewhere?
The resources and support at RIT/NTID are incredible. From the co-op programs to the deaf community, there’s nothing else like it.

What are your peers like at RIT/NTID? Do you have a mix of hearing and deaf friends?
I have a mix of hearing and deaf friends, which is like my experience in high school. It’s been great to connect with people from different backgrounds.

Are you involved with any extracurricular activities on campus?
Yes, I’m very involved on campus. I’m the treasurer for the NTID Student Congress, part of the Next Gen of Accountants in the business school, and I help with the BIPOC Financial Literacy Series, where we teach BIPOC deaf community members about finance. I’m also part of the Ebony Club and the Deaf Black Advocates (DBA).

How has your experience at RIT/NTID prepared you for your career?
RIT/NTID has helped me develop technical skills, like working with spreadsheets and software, as well as soft skills like communication and problem-solving. I’ve also gained real-world experience through my co-op, which has been invaluable.

What is your career goal?
My goal is to make an impact on communities, especially the deaf community. I’m open-minded about my career path and excited to see where life takes me.

Describe RIT/NTID in one word: Empowering!

Have you done a co-op yet? If so, please answer these questions:

• Employer Name and Location: I worked at Dow Chemical in Midland, Michigan.
• What was your position and work responsibilities on co-op? I was in a Cost Accounting role, where I identified operating inefficiencies and helped improve business administration processes.
• How are your studies at RIT/NTID preparing you for your career? My classes at RIT/NTID have taught me skills like using Microsoft Office, email communication, and problem-solving, which I directly applied during my co-op. The connection between academics and real-world experience has been really strong.