I grew up mainstreamed all my life, and basically signed SEE. There was few other deaf students in those schools I went to. I almost never had problems with hearing people most of the time in school. I've had few bullies in middle school but I overcame that, so I moved to a high school that is more closer to home and the environment is much better for me.
And I got to mention about the doctor's response to me when I once visited for a on job injury (a bit deep cut on my finger) few years ago. The doctor looked at me, and had the guts to ask me, do you drive? I gave him the look, and said of course I can!. I have my drivers license to show him the proof, and he gulped. I shrugged at him and get the injury taken care of, which is 3 stitches then went home.
I started to learn ASL when I entered college and still learn whenever I get the chance to interact with my friends and socialize. I'm both oral and use sign language.
