Student Profiles

Valerie Bu

Hometown:
St. Louis, Missouri – was born in Roanoke, Virginia

Major:
Management

Year in school:
Junior

Disability:
Deaf

What are your future endeavors?

I want to get MBA after few years of work experience.

What are your hobbies?

Sewing, reading, and rowing

What has been your greatest challenge while at MU?

My greatest challenge was fitting in the environment when I first started college.  It was a fresh start and I was in new environment and new people as well.  It was challenging for me because no one was aware of my deafness and I have to take some time to talk to the professors and explaining about the services I use in the classroom.  Now, it’s still challenging, but it’s not as hard as when I started college.

What would you like people to know about your disability?

Just because I am deaf does not mean I’m incapable of doing something.  The only thing I’m incapable of is hearing as good as hearing people.

What would you tell a student who has a disability like yours?

I would tell them do not let your deafness define who you are; you define your deafness.

What advice would you give to a new student at MU?

Do not be afraid to be direct when it comes to meeting your accommodations standards.  Talk to the professors - make them be aware of you.

In what way did the Office of Disability Services make a difference in your education? 

Office of Disability Services is able to provide me interpreter and typist service.  Without it, I will never be able to succeed here at MU.