I grew up going to a mainstreamed school as well. In fact, I went to a mainstreamed college, and now I'm transferring. 
I wanted to be around more people like me (my school only had a total of about 23 deaf people, and only 4 signers). I used to be totally oral like you, but then I started learning ASL last year and fell in love with deaf culture and signing. I'm so much happier this way than before. I can speak very well, but ASL is a two way street where I understand everything. Being at a deaf school is different, but I'm happy about my decision. I really feel like it's better, so that's why I'm telling you this, whether you choose to go to a deaf school or whatever.
I'm happy for you and you used to be in the same situation as me makes this important to keep in mind. I don't know ASL, never seen the deaf culture in reality, speak great, and grew up going to a mainstreamed school. "Why the hell would you want to turn around and try a Deaf school?" Many would ask.
Another thing, it's not just about buildings for certain majors, RIT is a mainstreamed school itself, it just happens to have a deaf BUILDING on campus, if that makes sense. The deaf students can also choose to mainstream within RIT, and not stay inside the deaf building all day. So they can be in classes with hearing people, just like at CSUN. Wasn't sure if you understood they're really similar.
Yes! Now this is what I'm talking about. No fall backs. A deaf building on a mainstreamed school's campus. This alone makes me consider CSUN than other CSU's. If other CSU's and CSUN offer the same major/programs I want, I'd definitely try CSUN first.
Now Gally is something entirely new, besides the academic side, although many members in here said Gally's academic education isn't comparable to mainstreamed colleges, and if I didn't like the school outside classes, I'd be in trouble. Probably hate it to the point I like to get out and go to a different school, hence nothing to fall back on and time is wasted.
Nonetheless, we have to try something new every once in a while, but if there is no Plan B, it'll be a tough decision to consider.
What you said about striving in learning, I agree--you can learn the same at a hearing university. I learned a lot. But the opportunities? I have to disagree, because I feel like being among people like me is better for my career and opportunities. Believe me. When I was in class with an interpreter at my old university, people would rarely approach me because I was like an alien. People always gasp when they find out I can talk or that I speak Spanish or something.
Sororities/fraternities and just general socialization is SO much better and easier with more deaf people. I think if you spent some time in the deaf community, you'd see what I mean. It's not always for everyone, but at least you'd given it a try! Hearing universities didn't always know how to accommodate me, but schools with more deaf (Like CSUN for you!) will be better--in my opinion and experience.
Yes you are absolutely right. What fun is there if you can only do so well in classes at a hearing university and that's it? Opportunities is important, especially when college students are paying for housing, tuition, food, and more. In addition, staying there for couple years, seeing the same buildings, professors, and students everyday.
Actually today I went to my college's student support office and asked this lady if I can get a FM system for next semester. Her reply? She didn't know what a "FM" is and thought of interpreter service (Yes, but no thank you). It's fine as she made me an appointment for another day with this other lady that will help me.
I need to make a list of questions to ask when visiting CSUN. Hopefully it's a typical busy day there and I can ask students if they like the school and all... (shoot! couldn't think of something as I type. Better get to it!)
