Megan Gonzalez
“My time at RIT allowed me to meet other deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, which was not an opportunity that I had often when I was growing up. I was able to explore my Deaf identity and learn American Sign Language freely, without judgment or anxiety because others around me were doing the same.”
We recently caught up with Megan Gonzalez, an alumna from southern Florida. Megan graduated from RIT/NTID in 2014 with a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies from the College of Applied Arts and Sciences and then went on to earn an M.S. in Secondary Education of the Deaf in 2017.
Megan is a teacher of deaf students at a Palm Beach County high school in West Palm Beach, Florida. In her free time, she enjoys being with friends and family, going to the beach, exploring snorkel trails, and traveling.
We asked Megan some questions about her experiences at RIT/NTID.
Why did you choose RIT/NTID for your college education?
Megan: I was drawn to RIT/NTID because I knew it would be an opportunity to meet other deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals like myself. I wanted to spread my wings and have a college experience different from my friends and family. As a native from South Florida, I remember being so excited to head to upstate New York and start a brand-new adventure far from home. I was enthusiastic about seeing the seasons change and experiencing winter (oh, how naive was I?) and meet new people.
What is one of your best memories from college?
Megan: Most of my favorite memories are tied to living with my best friends during my fourth year at RIT. Four of us lived in Park Point, and it was just a blast. We used to meet up at Salsarita’s between classes for chips and salsa and just hang out. Good times! My time at RIT allowed me to meet other deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, which was not an opportunity that I had often when I was growing up. I was able to explore my deaf identity and learn American Sign Language freely, without judgment or anxiety because others around me were doing the same.
What advice would you give current students on navigating college life?
Megan: Enjoy college! Join as many clubs or activities as you can. Life is about experiences. You never know what will turn into a passion or create a connection for you down the road. Find co-ops (work experience), even if your program doesn't require them. It will help you figure out what you like or don't like about the field you plan to go into. I threw myself into joining a variety of clubs and joined the sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha. And I worked several co-ops, including summer school at The Learning Center for the Deaf and the Rhode Island School for the Deaf.
How have you remained connected to RIT/NTID as an alum?
Megan: Currently, I am on the NTID Alumni Association Board of Directors. I also have gone to different local events hosted by RIT/NTID and connect with former professors and colleagues at NTID. A few other alumni friends and I still keep in touch and see each other a few times a year.
I am forever thankful my parents trusted me to attend college so far from home and grateful for the experience I had at RIT. Thank you RIT/NTID for the opportunity to grow and for opening the door to endless possibilities! The most incredible takeaway I had from RIT was the friendships and connections I made that will last a lifetime. I consider myself very lucky to have met so many wonderful people that bring such joy and good, not only into my life, but also in their communities.
This interview originally appeared in RIT/NTID Parent News in January 2023.
