Class of 2018's Brooke Wigmore has her hands busy in various sectors as a signed language interpreter.

Since graduating from Lakeland's sign language interpretation program, Wigmore has worked for five theatre companies, two interpreting agencies and an educational institution.

“Due to confidentiality reasons I can't share too much, but I do a lot of work in the Edmonton area. Work that I did not think I'd be doing if it weren't for my Lakeland experience,” Wigmore says.

Lakeland played a leading role in preparing her for many specialized situations - in and beyond the classroom. “I love the diverse range of professors I had. I learned from a Deaf-blind instructor, an instructor who is a child of a Deaf adult, and from other interpreters.”

In Lakeland's interpreting in specialized settings course, Wigmore was exposed to different types of interpreting scenarios including business, education, mental health, medical, deaf-blind, theatre and legal.

“We got to talk to the interpreters and agencies who work in these specialized settings. This course and my practicum experience helped me narrow down what I wanted to pursue after graduation,” she says.

Wigmore completed her practicum with a national event dedicated to the Deaf performing arts. Through the experience, Wigmore was able to network and establish connections.

“Practicum was my favourite part. I worked around Edmonton, was a part of some great projects, and received awesome hands-on experience. I can't believe the opportunities that have come out of my practicum experience and education.”

As a student, Wigmore was invited to interpret for numerous college events last year.  

While theatre has captured her attention, her passion lies in education. Wigmore plans to complete her elementary education degree with hopes of working with Deaf students.