“Learning languages is something I have always liked to do on the side. Through British Sign Language Horizons modules, I have connected with the teaching staff and my fellow students and found a language I truly enjoy.”
I am currently in my second year of BSc Medical Biosciences and my second year of being the Student Rep for British Sign Language (BSL) Horizons modules. Within my role, I represent students that are learning British Sign Language Levels 1 and 2 and discuss their feedback to help shape how BSL is taught as part of the Horizons/I-Explore programme.
Although the BSL cohort across both levels is very small, made up of only 26 students this year, it has become its own community. While completing my BSL Level 2, I volunteered to help teach BSL Level 1, providing extra support to further develop their signing skills. I really loved being a student one day, then a teacher the next day, all while practicing my own BSL skills. Learning languages is something I have always liked to do on the side. Through Horizons, I have connected with the teaching staff and my fellow students and found a language I truly enjoy.
Outside of academics, I am a keen member of Musical Theatre Society. I have performed in a number of shows, most recently our December showcase Revue. Currently, I am working on writing my own musical that can be interpreted into BSL. Next year, I will also be the president of Sign Language Society, where we offer short BSL lessons and arrange BSL-related events.
As we become more aware of hidden disabilities like being Deaf/hard of hearing, we help Imperial become a more inclusive and accessible space. After I graduate, I hope to become a Qualified Teacher of the Deaf, so that I can combine my love for science and BSL and share it in the classroom.