Laith Fathulla

Name: Laith Fathulla Country: Iraq Field of Study:International Studies

My name is Laith Fathulla. I was born in Kirkuk, Iraq, and I am 23 years old. My parents encouraged me to go to Gallaudet University because they believed it to be a safe place for me to earn my degree and enjoy the extracurricular life that Washington, D.C. has to offer. I was admitted to Gallaudet University for the fall 2012 semester. I remember very well the week I spent in New Student Orientation (NSO) before classes began. There, I met classmates that I continue to be very close with.

Today, I am a junior majoring in international studies. I am thinking about declaring a second major but I haven't made a decision. I love my major deep down in my heart because in the future I will continue to be involved in the international community and fight for human rights for everyone. Unfortunately, deaf education around the world is not the utopia it is here in the U.S. I have seen many people suffer, due to lack of education. 

It is my intention to take advantage of every opportunity Gallaudet University has to offer. I have two jobs that I am committed to: Peer Advisor in the Office of Residence Life and Housing and Peer Career Advisor in the Career Center. I am also involved with the Homecoming Committee and Kappa Gamma Fraternity. Last year, I was involved in Student Body Government. 

Lastly, I would like to say that I am really thankful for my Sasakawa Scholarship; 
it is the reason I am motivated in school. Indeed, because of the scholarship, I am 
invested in my education and I am able to continue my undergraduate studies.