It is only right to recognize all of the future Interpreter Training Program (ITP) students. I would like to thank them for considering the interpreting profession. Across the United States, we are in desperate need of interpreters. I am so grateful for students who want to become interpreters for the Deaf. And, even though many of them have great intentions, not every student who enrolls in an ITP will graduate and become an interpreter. And that is the reason why I am writing this blog.
As a former ITP graduate, I was fortunate to have wonderful teachers, mentors, and peers. But, one thing that was missing from my education was a reliable and accurate ASL dictionary resource. When I didn’t know a sign, I had to wait to find someone who would know how to sign. I didn’t have the luxury of looking up information on the Internet. Now, I graduated from an ITP in 1993, which was a little before the use of Internet. However, it did seem like I had email. But, I am not sure on that one. For new ITP students, you have the entire use of the Internet. Make good use of it finding reliable ASL resources you can use to help you achieve your goal. It is that reason alone; ASLdeafined prides itself on accurate and clear ASL in video format.
How can you make sure you succeed in the ITP?
First, you want to make sure you have good peers to count on and to support you. This is so critical of your learning and success. When you are having a bad day, call your friend and supporter on the phone. Keep that communication support open. Another thing you need is a great ASL resource to practice outside of the classroom. You cannot learn everything in your ITP classes. You have to take it upon yourself to learn some of the information on your own. At ASLdeafined, we want to help those students who are looking for the best resource online. We want to give it to you for $12.00 for the entire calendar year. 🙂 This will help you succeed in your ITP program. Simply email me at info@asldeafined.com for the Promo Code. Make sure you ask me for it. You deserve it, and we want to support your learning.
How can you become that interpreter that you desire?
The #1 way to become that interpreter you desire is to practice. The more you practice, the better you will become an ASL interpreter. Many students will not take time to practice outside of the classroom. And because of that, they have a hard time succeeding. You can do yourself a big favor and practice all of the time. And, don’t be afraid to review lessons on ASLdeafined that you may have covered in the classroom. On ASLdeafined, there are over 300 themed lessons, 16,000 + videos in the dictionary with synonyms, handshapes, locations of signs etc. There should not be a day you don’t practice your ASL skills.
How can you pass the certification test when it comes time to take it?
Practicing is not enough. You have to go and interact with the Deaf community. The more you practice the better you will be. The formula for success is simple. The more time you put into ASL interpreting, the more you will get out of it. There is no other way. Is it easy to be a certified interpreter? No. But, once you become that interpreter, you have it for life.
What do you desire? Do you have enough passion to be an ASL interpreter? I hope your answer is yes. Now, roll up those sleeves and get busy. There is a lot to learn. Here at ASLdeafined, we cannot wait to see you online. Remember, we want to do our part by giving you a great gift of our entire ASL site for just $12.00 per year. Just email me at info@asldeafined.com and ask for the Promo Code.