Jessica Gabriel Self Portrait

Jessica Gabrian was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri.  When deciding about graduate school, she had her heart set on new sights and being immersed in the Deaf community.  She knew that Gallaudet was the place for her!  At Gallaudet, she was able to be immersed in the Deaf world while studying to become an interpreter, an experience she knew was offered no where else.  Jessica is currently a freelance interpreter in the Metropolitan D.C. area and was recently elected as the President of the Potomac Chapter of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (PCRID).

When asked how Gallaudet’s Interpreting graduate program helped prepare her for her career, she stated, “I had the opportunity to study under some of the most respected interpreters in the field. The courses gave me a wide array of setting-specific knowledge that allowed me to hone my skills and get a better sense of where my skills are best used. I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for the guidance of the faculty and the program as a whole.”

Jessica’s advice to future graduate students? “Networking is a crucial part of success in the professional realm. Don’t wait to get started until right before graduation!”