ASL and Deaf students from eight high schools in the area came together for LT’s second Deaf Panel & ASL Jam in the NC Reber on April 10 to practice signing skills, mingle, listen to stories from Deaf individuals, and learn about various colleges’ and universities’ ASL programs. The doors opened at 6:15 p.m and the event lasted from 7 to 9 p.m. 

“Signing outside of class creates a different and more engaging experience, and we aim to provide an opportunity for individuals to practice and improve their skills with peers their age,” ASL teacher Krystle Conrad said.

The schools represented at the event included the College of DuPage, Northern Illinois University, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, University of Northern Colorado, Columbia College, and Moraine Valley Community College. Some of these schools have two-year certificates, while others have four-year degrees.

“All [the schools] have great ASL programs,” Conrad said.

Students had the option to arrive early to socialize and explore lobby activities, including booths for six colleges and universities with ASL programs, a selfie area with ASL props, and a new ASL Mural where students will have the opportunity to draw themselves. The event began at 7 pm with the Deaf Panel, which ended with a 7:45 p.m intermission for snacks and drinks, and concluded with the ASL Jam from 8 to 9 pm.

“The importance of this event is to raise awareness of the Deaf community while bringing people together to use our target language, ASL, in a more natural setting outside the classroom,” Conrad said.

The ASL Jam allowed students to perform stories, jokes, songs, or poems either solo or with friends, while the Deaf Panel included four Deaf individuals sharing their personal experiences with living in a hearing world. Students will have the opportunity to ask questions during the panel.

“[The panel allowed students] to learn more, build understanding, and gain insight into Deaf culture and experiences,” Conrad said.