Cassidy Knopp

Minor in ASL

Current Occupation: Specialist Intervenor with Deafblind Community Services
Program: BA Hons (Childhood and Youth Studies)/22

In 2022, I graduated from Carleton University with a major in Childhood and Youth Studies and a Minor in Psychology, as well as a Minor in American Sign Language (ASL). Since then, ASL has become a central part of both my personal and professional life.

After graduating, I worked with a company supporting individuals with Dual Diagnosis, many of whom used ASL in their lives, either due to being either deaf or non-verbal. The education I received and the experience I had in the community allowed me to land what I consider my dream job earlier this year: working as a Specialist Intervenor with Deafblind Community Services. In this role, I use a range of communication methods-including voiceover, two handed manual and ASL- to facilitate communication and describe the environment to my clients, empowering them to be independent and successful in their daily lives.

I truly would not be where I am today without the ASL classes I took at Carleton. From my very first class to the final session in fourth year, I was immersed in the language and welcomed into Deaf culture. I learned what it means to be an ally, and I gained a deep respect for the strength, pride and resilience within the Deaf community-rooted in a rich cultural history.

Studying ASL profoundly shaped my understanding of inclusion. It’s something I now carry with me every day, both professionally and personally. The professors were incredible – always supportive, approachable and passionate about what they taught. Their commitment made the classroom feel like a welcoming, safe space to learn, ask questions and grow.

To any first-year students just starting out: exploring ASL could change your life in ways you don’t expect. For me, it opened doors to meaningful work, lasting relationships and a broader, more inclusive worldview. I’m so grateful I took that first step.