Jumpstart: American Sign Language
What is JumpStart: American Sign Language (ASL)?
The JumpStart: ASL Program was formerly known as New Signers Program (NSP). It is a sign language immersion program. Through the program, students learn enough basic sign skills before fall semester so that they can communicate with other Gallaudet students, faculty and staff. Students are also provided instruction in Gallaudet's history and traditions, deaf awareness, and Deaf Culture.
The overall message is that communication can happen in many ways at Gallaudet University. Students can take ownership of their communication needs. In time, it is expected that the JumpStart: ASL students will be able to integrate into the intellectual, cultural, and social climate of the university.
Please do check out below on what our previous JumpStart: ASL students have to say about their JumpStart experience!
"I thought it was such an awesome idea to get students together at JumpStart who know little or no sign at all. I knew from the start that I would participate in this amazing opportunity to help me get the best experience at Gallaudet." -- Stephanie Weiss
"JumpStart was like a family... I wish it could continue forever. Joining JumpStart helped me a lot especially in the improvement of ASL, settling down at Gallaudet and be prepared in the fall." -- Santina Mwarania
"As eager as I was to have a fresh start in a brand new city, I was nervous at the possibility of culture shock and becoming overwhelmed by such drastic lifestyle changes. In JumpStart, I was offered the ease of a subtle transition into a new culture. Also, we were able to make lasting friendships before the hectic fall semester starts. I could not have been more satisfied! " -- Kallissa Bailey
"I feel like I died and went to heaven! I arrived for the JumpStart highly motivated. I was not disappointed. I felt that the program was a very positive experience for me and I am absolutely exhilarated by how much my signing knowledge has grown in this short time." -- Jean Jims
