Bridging communication gaps with certified, culturally sensitive American Sign Language interpretation.
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Passionate about accessibility and communication
My mission is to make communication access more equitable and available to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, in a professional and caring way, and to help to bridge the hearing world with that of the Deaf community.
Hello! Welcome to my EPortfolio. I am Spencer Fitzpatrick and I am an interpreting student at American River College’s Interpreter Preparation Program. I learned American Sign Language in Ashland, Oregon at Southern Oregon University, where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Philosophy. I completed 2 years of ASL courses there, and before the first semester had finished, I knew I wanted to be an interpreter. I had become very close with my ASL teacher and he has inspired me to work with and for the Deaf community as an interpreter.
My other passions include rock climbing and reading. I have been climbing since I was very young and it is truly my happy place. It is a perfect mixture of physical activity and mental stimulation. While on the wall, your strength and dexterity are tested, as well as your problem solving and quick thinking skills. I have steadily improved and now I am able to climb V6 problems. My love of reading also started quite young. I read Jules Verne and Mark Twain and fell in love with science fiction. Now my collection is over 100 books and I especially love the works of Arthur C. Clarke, Frank Herbert, Dan Simmons and Isaac Asimov. A life goal of mine is to read the entirety of Asimov’s Robots/Empire/Foundation series. These interests are what bonded me to my ASL teacher and I would practice ASL through discussions about novels. We have kept in touch and have an ASL Book Club.
I live in the Sacramento area and am willing to travel within reason for work. Please take a few minutes to browse my portfolio to learn more about me. I am excited to work with you!
Building skills through education and practice
Current - In Progress
Comprehensive training in American Sign Language interpretation including:
Southern Oregon University | September 2022 - June 2024
Completed a comprehensive two-year American Sign Language program developing foundational linguistic and cultural competencies essential for effective interpretation. This intensive coursework provided the linguistic foundation necessary for professional interpretation practice.
Southern Oregon University Recreation Center | 2022 - 2024
Facilitated and participated in monthly Deaf Climb Night events, creating accessible recreational spaces for Deaf community members while gaining valuable immersion experience in ASL-primary environments.
View my complete professional background and qualifications
Demonstrations of interpretation skills
This section will feature an educational interpretation sample demonstrating academic vocabulary and lecture interpretation skills.
This section will feature a community interpretation sample showcasing public event and group communication interpretation.
This section will feature a healthcare interpretation sample demonstrating medical terminology and patient communication skills.
This section will feature a business interpretation sample demonstrating professional workplace communication skills.
This section will feature a narrative interpretation sample demonstrating ASL storytelling and cultural expression techniques.
This section will feature a VRI sample demonstrating remote interpretation skills and virtual platform best practices.
Work samples will be added as they become available through my program and professional practice. All samples will be created with appropriate permissions and follow ethical guidelines.
Professional organizations and community connections
The premier national membership organization for sign language interpreters, providing certification, professional development, and ethical standards.
Visit RIDThe nation's premier civil rights organization of, by, and for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, advocating for accessibility and equality.
Specialized assessment tool measuring the skills and knowledge of interpreters and transliterators who work in educational settings.
Visit EIPASacramento-based organization providing comprehensive services, advocacy, and support for the Deaf and hard of hearing community in Northern California.
Visit NorCalProfessional references from instructors, supervisors, and colleagues will be provided upon request as I continue to build my professional network and complete my certification program.
Let's discuss your interpretation needs
I'm currently accepting inquiries for interpretation services.
Whether you need interpretation for educational settings, medical appointments, business meetings, or special events, I'm here to help facilitate clear and effective communication.
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