ASL/English Interpreter Training Program Application Instructions

This application requires an Essay and an ASL Video sample at the time of submission. Read all of the instructions and prepare your essay and video before you apply to ensure your submission is complete at the time that you apply. Incomplete applications cannot be considered.

Essay Instructions

“Is Interpreting the Career for Me?”

In a carefully crafted essay, share with us why you will make an outstanding sign language interpreter. Include any relevant information about past work or personal experiences that demonstrate your aptitude for the physical and intellectual demands of a sign language interpreter. Additionally, describe your experience with American Sign Language, including coursework. Finally, describe your relationship with the Deaf Community.

Note: This essay will be judged on vocabulary, grammar, mechanics, style and creativity. It must be typed, double-spaced, and no more than two pages. You will be asked to verify that you received no assistance in writing this essay.

ASL Video Sample

You must submit a video sample demonstrating your skills in American Sign Language with your application.

ASL Video Content

Answer the following questions using your best ASL skills. Do not rehearse. We want a natural sample of your signing ability at this time. You may use notes. You may refer to them, but do not read your notes while signing. Please keep your answers to these questions under five minutes.

1. Describe your family, including names and ages, and where you live.
2. Describe in detail a favorite room in your home.
3. Describe an object that is meaningful to you (e.g. heirloom, a gift).
4. Share a memorable experience.

Video Recording Guidelines

• Wear a solid colored top or shirt (no designs, lettering, stripes, plaids, or logos).
• Wear clothes that contrast your skin tone. Avoid dark or brightly colored nail polish.
• Remove all rings and distracting jewelry, including any piercings.
• Hair should be away from your face and mustaches or beards should be trimmed.
• Your video should be shot in a location that is quiet and has good lighting.
• Use a solid colored distraction-free background.
• Frame from your waist to about a few inches above your head. Your facial expressions, nonmanuals, fingerspelling, and signs must be visible and clear. We urge you to review your video before submitting.
• Stay within the frame during recording. Do not sway or rock back and forth.
• Start the recording and count five seconds before you begin signing. Begin your video with a greeting, and introduce yourself by signing your first and last name.

Upload your video to YouTube (preferred, instructions below) or other webhosting service, as long as you can add an accessible URL to your program application, and submit the link with your application. Do not submit video files directly by email.

You may submit your video on a DVD or thumb drive in person to our program; however, online submission is preferred. If you must submit the video on a DVD or thumb drive, mail or drop off at:

Bakersfield College
1801 Panorama Drive
Bakersfield, CA 933015
ATTN: Jaclyn Krause LA 211

Questions

If you have questions, please contact:

• Tom Moran: tmoran@bakersfieldcollege.edu (661) 395-4537 or (661) 369-8829
• Jaclyn Krause: jaclyn.krause@bakersfieldcollege.edu (661) 395-4791

NOTE: ASL/English Interpreting courses have a prerequisite of having completed ASL 4 or the equivalent.

PRIORITY CONSIDERATION GIVEN TO APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED BY APRIL 14, 2024

NOTE: If you are not currently a student at BC, acceptance into this program is dependent on your acceptance into Bakersfield College. You must complete enrollment requirements as soon as possible.

Application

I have prepared my essay and my video and am ready to apply

Go to Application