Park Ridge resident Frances Dravellas is a sign language interpreter at Township High School District 211. She said sign language gives her a chance to connect with others.
Q: Where did you grow up and go to school?
A: I grew up in Park Ridge and attended Maine South High School. For college, I went to Oakton Community College to obtain an associate’s degree, and then I transferred to Columbia College Chicago.
Q: How did you become interested in sign language?
A: I became interested in sign language through friends. I instantly fell in love with it.
Q: Where did you learn sign language?
A: I studied American Sign Language at Columbia College with the most profound professors.
Q: What do you like the most about knowing another “language?”
A: I love learning the culture that comes with it. It is truly eye-opening when you meet people who share a different culture. It is exciting to learn the different backgrounds and old-fashioned [and] new signs from different regions.
Q: Where do you currently work?
A: I work for Township High School District 211. I am an interpreter for a student.
Q: You also worked in the tech field for a while. What did you like about it?
A: I loved the people in the tech field and the fact that I was always staying up to date with the latest gadgets and learning new things.
Q: What does the future hold for you while holding a degree in sign language?
A: The future holds a lifetime of happiness. I am in the field that I love. I’m looking to higher my education and certification.
Q: What do you like to do for fun?
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A: I love to stay active. I like sports, dancing and working out. I also love to read, play sudoku and I enjoy playing video games as well. I like to spend quality time with my family and friends. That’s probably my favorite thing to do.