
ROAD TO DEAF INTERPRETING
HOW TO APPLY

PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY & EDUCATION
1) Who can apply for this training series?This program is for Deaf Interpreters who are:
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Currently working as interpreters, or
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Interested in becoming interpreters
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Applicants should have:
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Strong ASL skills
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Strong ability to communicate using a variety of communication approaches
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Anyone is welcome to apply!
2) Do I need a college degree?
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No. A college degree is not required to begin working as a Deaf Interpreter in Massachusetts.
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The Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH) offers a Deaf Interpreter Screening program.
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If you pass the MCDHH screening, you can work in Massachusetts for eight years before
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applying for RID’s CDI exams.
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The MCDHH screening is also accepted in other New England states.
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RID also offers an “Alternative Pathway” that may allow a waiver of the degree requirement. More details are available on the RID website: RID.org.
PROGRAM FORMAT & COURSE EXPECTATIONS
1) What if I’m not sure I want to take the whole program?
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That is okay. We expect that some people will be unsure if this is the right program for them because they are new to the field or maybe want to try few classes first.
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We recommend starting with:
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Deaf Interpreters: Past, Present, and Future and the next three courses. This will help you decide if the full program is right for you.
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2) Are there required readings or assignments?
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It depends on the instructor.
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Some sessions include pre-reading or vlogs
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Some have no assignments
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Some may include post-session work
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Your instructor will inform you ahead of time.
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Completion of Mentorship assignments which total of 30 hours is required for program completion.
The application process is simple, if you’re accepted into the RDI program.
No application fee to apply, looking forward to your application!
What do we expect from you to process the application?
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Your contact information
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3 minutes ASL video and create YouTube link
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About yourself - your background​
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Why do you want to join RDI?
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If you struggle to insert a youtube link, please process the application by clicking submit and emailing the file or link to director@roadtodeafinterpreting.com, Thank you!
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ACCESSIBILITY & POLICIES
1) How can I request accommodation?
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If you need accommodations (linguistic or physical access), please contact: director@roadtodeafinterpreting.com.
2) Non-Discrimination and Respectful Environment Policy
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Include a statement identifying the policies on non-discrimination and promoting an environment of mutual respect that is also free from bias. For example, “Instructors, coordinators, director, and participants of this educational opportunity agree to promote an environment of mutual respect, free from bias and discrimination.”
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Please note, this statement does not preclude “difficult conversations” and aims to create environments where learning and honest dialogue can happen. this statement does not preclude “difficult conversations”