Student Spotlight: Amanda Ingrassia
Amanda Ingrassia harbors a lifelong passion for languages that traces back to her childhood. From as early as fourth grade, Amanda took it upon herself to learn American Sign Language, drawing knowledge from books and online resources.
DISCOVERING HER CALLING
By actively engaging with the deaf community, Amanda sought opportunities to practice signing with members of the community. During one memorable museum tour with the group, she watched an interpreter skillfully bridge the communication gap, which sparked a desire in Amanda to become an interpreter herself.
Amanda was further inspired by her boyfriend, an aspiring dentist who happens to be deaf. She looked for the best avenue to pursue certification as a sign language interpreter. She discovered that CFCC offers an Interpreter Education program that would assist her in achieving her ultimate goal of assisting her boyfriend in his future dental practice.
“I’ve always had a love and a passion for languages. Although I was able to teach myself through the internet and books, speaking with sign language is different from interpreting,” shared Amanda. “I was happy to find that CFCC offered the Interpreter Education program so I could pursue my passion.”
INCLUSIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
Students of all skill levels are welcome in the program, as there is no requirement to be advanced in sign language; it caters to everyone’s proficiency levels. In her ASL class, Amanda’s prior self-study in ASL grants her a strong foundation, enabling her to assist fellow students who have had less exposure to ASL.
“In our class, there’s quite a range of skill levels,” Amanda commented. “You’ve got someone like me who’s been using sign language for years, and then there are students who are still struggling with their ABCs. I am happy to lend a helping hand and mentor some of the less experienced students.”
BEYOND WORDS
The ASL program is a truly immersive experience, fostering an environment where vocal communication is prohibited in class. This immersion begins right from the basics, with students starting their journey by learning the fundamentals of ASL, including the alphabet and introductory questions.
“This program is not just about learning ASL,” explains Amanda. “It’s about learning the interpretation, learning how to talk backwards because it’s not traditional English. It’s not “what’s your name?” It’s “your name is what?” That’s how you would sign it.”
Understanding that some students may have limited prior experience, instructors provide additional support to help bridge the gap for those who are less experienced in sign language. This commitment to immersion not only accelerates language acquisition but also creates a space where students can fully embrace and appreciate the rich and expressive world of American Sign Language.
Learn more about CFCC’s Interpreter Education program.
