Trojan Treasures: ASL/ITP club

This week’s Trojan Treasure is the American Sign Language/Interpreter Training Program Club, which is better known as ASL/ITP Club. ASL/ITP is an organization that helps students immerse themselves in the deaf culture.

The first interest meeting is Monday, Sept. 9, at 7 p.m. in Hawkins Hall Room 117

It may seem like a very exclusive club, but anyone can join. All levels of signers are welcome. The meetings are conducted in ASL, but it is also translated in English for students who know little to no sign language. There are also events where members can interact with the deaf.

Dorothy Vernon, a junior ASL major from Anniston, Ala., joined because it was her major and was a good way to get involved, but she explains why students with different majors would be interested.

“It gives you access to a whole new culture without having to take specific classes,” Vernon said.

ASL/ITP Club is always sure to make students who are new to ASL feel comfortable while being introduced to the new environment. Immersion is considered the best technique for learning.

ASL/ITP was formed around five years ago because interaction is the most important part of signing, and they hoped to get students involved in deaf culture. ASL was also created to give back to the deaf community.

The group uses club money to pay for film captioning, and if they hold an event that has a fee it is free to the deaf.

“I think it’s important because you communicate with a new group of people,” said Haley Harris, a junior ASL major from Gardendale, Ala.

The club has events that consist of silent lunches and dinners, and they attend sporting events as a group. Dues are $25 for a year or $15 per semester. For those who want further information you can contact the ASL club at aslanditp@troy.edu