Turning curiosity into purpose through ASL

At just 18 years old, Jessica Torres is already paving the way for a meaningful career rooted in communication and compassion. Currently pursuing an associate degree in Sign Language Interpreting, Torres has found her calling in a field she stumbled upon unexpectedly and instantly fell in love with.

“I first got interested during a field trip my freshman year of high school,” she said. “There was a deaf group with us, and their interpreter was up front during the presentations. I remember thinking, ‘That is so cool.’ I had never seen anything like it, and I couldn’t stop watching.”

That early interest stuck with her. When the time came to apply to colleges, Torres knew she wanted to explore American Sign Language (ASL). STC stood out for its strong ASL program, affordability and support systems. It also helped that home wasn’t far away.

“I got accepted to another college, but it was eight hours from home. As soon as I told my mom, she said, ‘Nope, you’re staying here,’” Torres said with a laugh. “Looking back, I’m glad I did. I think I would’ve regretted not staying close to family. STC has everything I need.”

Torres said she chose to pursue the Sign Language Interpreting track after realizing it aligned with both her personal and professional goals.

“With this degree, I can start working right after graduation. I’m not totally sure what I’ll end up doing, maybe teaching or interpreting, but I know I’ll have options,” she said.

Set to graduate in December 2026, Torres is already taking advanced coursework and starting her internship journey. She’s also heavily involved on campus as a student ambassador, a role that’s helped her grow in more ways than one.

“I was recruited by Glacie Cabrera, who’s also an ambassador,” Torres said. “At first, I was super nervous. I remember having to introduce myself on tours and barely being able to get the words out. But now I love it. I’m leading full tours, cracking jokes and getting students excited about college.”

Her drive to keep going comes from a mix of family support and internal motivation.

“My family is my biggest inspiration, especially my siblings, but I also push myself. I want to be my best self. Even when I get tired or burned out, I remind myself, ‘You’re almost there. Don’t stop now,’” said Torres.

Torres also credits ASL faculty member Melissa Ibanez for encouraging her and helping her see her potential.

“She told me I’d make an amazing ASL teacher. That meant the world to me, especially coming from someone I look up to,” she said.

As for the future, Torres has big dreams including becoming a teacher or interpreter and continuing to make a difference for others.

“There’s something really beautiful about helping people communicate. And if I can do that for someone, even just one person, then that’s enough for me,” said Torres.