Yes it is part of the U.S. I have traveled to the states so " meeting an american " is no issue apart from the fact that I see them and attend them every day at work. That's how I do it.
No I'm not deaf. I went to the UPR. I'm from an island (the university name gives the name of the island away ) and you should read the ' about me ' in my profile. That should tell you enough about me.
I've actaully never been to Washington DC. My absolute DREAM was to go to Gallaudet but I can't affored the tuition. I went to a community college in my old town when I was 16 (I'm 18 now) but had to take a break for medical reasons. I'll be starting courses again in the Spring in my new town.
I actaully just moved two months ago from Placerville to Sacramento. Grew up in Pville for quite a while. That's pretty close to Georgetown. (I saw your post about meeting up with a friend.)