Passions: American Sign Language (ASL), Deaf culture, sports
I’ve been fascinated by ASL since I first saw it, and I was thrilled to take the elementary course to fulfill my language requirement at Holy Cross. In the intermediate class, my interest in Deaf culture blossomed, and I decided to take it as far as I could.
As part of Deaf Studies, I worked one-on-one with Gayle, a middle-aged woman who lives in Worcester. Because she is blind as well as deaf, I had to spell out the sign language directly into her hand. At first I was overwhelmed, but Professor Judy Fask guided and encouraged me. I even gained the confidence to help Gayle participate in a spiritual retreat, spelling out everything that was happening. Now Professor Fask and I are working with a Holy Cross English professor to get Gayle’s poetry and memoirs published.
In high school, playing sports was a big part of my life, and I missed it my first year at Holy Cross. The summer before sophomore year, I decided to try out for softball but hurt my back so badly I couldn’t play. I was in touch with the coach, and he asked me to join the team as manager. I videotape games and keep statistics, and even though I’m not on the field, it feels amazing to be part of a team again. I’ve been given a great opportunity.
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