hi
Bottom line is...if you don't become involved in the Deaf culture and get "hands-on," you will not be able to effectively communicate. Regional idioms, gramatical facial cues, etc....all important and if you are not involved in the community...you'll be lost.
I'm a student studying ASL in Cleveland, Ohio. I've been to Gallaudet to visit and am going back to D.C. this week. An awesome place to experience the Deaf culture! Love to ride my motorcycle...blah blah blah. Isn't this exciting!