What Is It Like Being An ASL Interpreter?

What is it like interpreting for the Deaf? What are the challenges? As an interpreter, how can I be better prepared? In this video, we walk through a scenario and introduce a framework that will help every interpreter.
Do you hire or work with ASL interpreters? This framework will help you understand how you can contribute to a successful outcome.
The framework is found in this book, DC-S, The Demand Control Schema
demandcontrols...
#asl
#interpreting

[@miguelfernandes5628]

Im finishing my medical interpreting program since I speak Spanish and English fluently but now your video inspires a new thought in me, what about being an ASL Bilingual Interpreter?

[@signlanguagepractice]

Any time you have a specific skill that has a demand and not many people can do it (Fluent ASL, Spanish, English) you will be in high demand. I would check locally with some interpreting agencies and find out how often it is requested.

[@miguelfernandes5628]

@@signlanguagepractice Thank you I plan to bring this up with my career coach on our next zoom meeting.

[@miguelfernandes5628]

@@signlanguagepractice Another thing I have seen in KZbin and online if how some interpreters are really involved with local ASL community because it is part of their career as interpreters. In your personal experience how involved are you with the ASL community where you live?

[@signlanguagepractice]

@@miguelfernandes5628 There is a fine line here. Interpreters have to clarify when they are interpreting vs being a part of the community. What about volunteer interpreting? Intepreters deal with incredibly sensitive and confidental matters, how do you handle that when you are face to face at a community event? It is a balancing act

[@brendaholmes392]

How can a person NOT view all this as overwhelming??🤔 (And don't say "You get used to it.". I'm talking about before that.)

[@signlanguagepractice]

Fair. As a CODA, I have been told I really have no concept the challenge of becoming an interpreter.

[@brendaholmes392]

@@signlanguagepractice Why would anyone say that?? You grew up in that environment.

[@VoxUrania]

I thought you were going to say a junior high sex ed class. That would also require some analysis. 🤔 😊

[@signlanguagepractice]

Great reason to always get some background BEFORE accepting an interpreting assignment!

[@michaelcooper3905]

@@signlanguagepractice I agree - Deaf male here. They hired a male interpreter for that class for me because a female interpreter was not comfortable doing this. So it's important to inform your students that sometimes we need male interpreters for doctor appointments, etc. The profession is overwhelmingly female

[@seniorlivingplans]

@@michaelcooper3905 absolutely correct. Clients deserve the right person, right skill, right environment...