Midjah Davis:
Hi, I'm Midajah. Before coming to Gallaudet University, I was embarrassed about being deaf. But now, through my experiences here, I’ve learned to be proud of who I am and what I bring to the table.

Gallaudet has elevated me become the best version of myself, and this has made me a better athlete too.

And it will be for you too.

Midjah Davis:
When growing up, I didn't want to stand out or be different from my hearing peers. So I tried to hide being deaf, pretending like I understood what was happening on social events at cafeteria, during the practice and more.

I would often take off my hearing aids, pretending like I could hear them better without them. Forcing myself to smile, nodding as if I understood. But all of this was a lie.

Even though I might have fooled them that I was part of the group, in their eyes, they knew I didn’t understand. And I knew that too.

Midjah Davis:
The only thing I had going for me was being one of the best athletes in my school.

However, I didn't fully understand how my deaf identity was holding me back. Even though I had success in sports, I was held back by my shame and embarrassment.

Sports have always been a huge part of my life, and I've dreamed of playing college sports and beyond for as long as I can remember. That's why choosing the right college was important for me.

Midjah Davis:
As athletes, we're always striving for something more. We know there's a greatness in all of us, and we want to be the best we can be. Only athletes will understand that.

When it came to choosing a college or university, I saw Gallaudet as something that could be better and more. I knew that, but I didn't know exactly what it was yet.

Midjah Davis:
But when I came to Gallaudet, everything changed. I was surrounded by coaches and players who had similar and understood my experiences.

For the first time I didn't have to pretend to understand what was happening around me. And what's even more powerful is that I'm not the only one who doesn't have to pretend anymore too.

Now, I fully embrace my identity as a black deaf female athlete, and thrive both on and off the court as a better athlete and person.

Midjah Davis:
I want to tell all the young deaf athletes especially BIPOC out there: don't let anyone or anything hold you back.

If you're looking for a place where you can thrive both on and off the court or field, come to Gallaudet. You'll find a supportive community, top-quality education, and the resources you need to achieve greatness. I'm living proof of what's possible when you embrace your deaf identity and focus on your strengths.

So come to Gallaudet and join me in elevating new heights and and unlocking our true potential.

Midjah Davis:
I am Gallaudet, I am Elevated.