Originally from New York City, I have been living in the Bay Area for over 10 years. During that time I have developed a career as sign language interpreter. My love of languages was sparked by growing up seeing multi-lingual signage on the subways.

I took my first ASL class the summer after graduating from high school. I became involved in the Deaf community while in college and spent my senior year as a visiting student at Gallaudet University. I spent the following summer as a staff member at the NAD's Youth Leadership Camp. Between Gallaudet and YLC I had the fortunate opportunity of having a year long ASL immersion experience.

Soon after establishing residency in California I entered the Ohlone IPP. Those two years were my interpreting immersion experience. It's been 10 years and sometimes I'm still amazed that I've developed a career as an interpreter. I remember when I was first learning sign, anytime I saw an interpreter working I would be fixated on them. Now I'm the one gracefully smiling back at the eager faces of hearing signers while they try to decipher the method of my interpreting madness.

I skipped school one day during IPP to stay home and paint this.

With my new pursuits in instructional technology I am shifting my career focus towards interpreter training. I am interested in exploring emerging technologies and their applicability towards training and professional development in my profession.

I am grateful to all the members of the Deaf community who welcomed me and have shared, and continue to share, their language with me. I am grateful for all the interpreters who have mentored me and been supportive colleagues. I am grateful for having a loving and supportive family who has always encouraged me to pursue my goals and happiness, even if it meant moving away from them (I'm coming back...really!).