American Sign Language

Francisco Ruvalcaba, also known as “Frankie,” is a third year at Fresno State majoring in Interpreting in American Sign Language. It was during his high school years that Ruvalcaba became interested in ASL after he saw the way a friend of his was able to interact with the deaf community using sign language. He self-taught himself the alphabet and the numbers.

When Ruvalcaba started at Fresno State, he began taking courses to get more practice in ASL. “It’s exposed me to a very good and complex community that’s welcoming and warm,” Rubalcaba says. “They are always there to help no matter what.” 

Growing up, Ruvalcaba remembers having a problem doing something for others without getting something back in return. When he began to get involved the deaf community, he realized that it’s not about what he is getting in return but how he is benefiting the community.

“I have done service learning at the local deaf church. I have also attended and assisted in deaf events throughout my years in ASL learning,” Ruvalcaba says. This year, he is working on the 200th celebration of deaf education, which will be hosted at Fresno State on April 27.

Ruvalcaba will continue his education in hopes of one day being able to interpret for high school academics with a focus on high school athletics.

“I feel like it has made me grow to be a better person looking out for others and the community instead of just myself,” Ruvalcaba says.