After gaining a BA majoring in English and History in 2017—and delivering the graduate address at a May ceremony that year—Gabriel considered his next steps. “I felt that English and History were great to improve my critical thinking skills but I wasn’t sure they would easily lead into well-paid job opportunities. I decided to return to University to study Software Development, an area that interested me and that has a shortage of workers.
“It’s an area that anyone with the right mindset and approach to learning can enter. Being deaf is not a disadvantage in software development - the only limit is how willing you are to learn.
“While completing my Master’s I learnt valuable skills that I hope to use to create my own projects or business one day.”
Gabriel initially chose to study at Victoria University of Wellington so he could better learn New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL). He has a cochlear implant which allows him to hear, and growing up in Nelson he learnt to communicate without NZSL. He spoke about that journey in a 2017 story.
“Before starting at Victoria University of Wellington I would probably use NZSL once a year for very basic conversation. Now, I use it on a weekly basis at least.”
Gabriel says being at University gave him the chance to be independent.
“It’s important to put yourself out there. University is intimidating at times, but it's the same for most people. It's worth the short-term awkwardness to gain friendships.
“Choosing to study at the University was worth it. I've learnt a lot. I had some good times, messed up and learnt from the bad times. I'm ready to survive in the world! Graduating with my Master’s means it's time to finally test myself.”