His path to Gallaudet University wasn’t traditional, but it was transformational. After serving in the armed forces and discovering ASL through ASL Connect, Klijah Mitchell, '24 found community, culture, and a calling at Gallaudet. Now an alum with a degree in Interpretation and Translation, he’s shaping a path that connects people through language.

Transcript and video description in the comments.

 gu.live/apply

Video Description: Klijah wears a black short-sleeve shirt with a Bison and the word “Gally” on it. He is wearing a black watch, a gold necklace, and a black baseball cap. He has a medium-length beard. He is walking down a hallway as he signs. Lower thirds display his name and major (Klijah Mitchell, Interpretation and Translation). B-roll footage of professors signing and a student wearing a graduation cap signing is folded into the reel. The video ends with the Gallaudet University logo and a red button with the words gu.live/apply.

Transcript: After I graduated high school, I was in the armed forces for five years. As time went by, I noticed my hearing started to deteriorate. At first, I was scared and didn’t know what to do. As I worried, I researched and found an online program called ASL Connect. That program gave me exposure to ASL and Deaf culture, especially the language itself. I enjoyed the total immersion wholeheartedly.

That led me to Gallaudet University. Honestly, at first, it was hard. I was overwhelmed by new people, experiences, culture, and language! Over time and with a support system here, I was able to find my place. I now major in interpreting. As the world evolves, I am evolving as well. Gallaudet helped me to look within and find myself.