A zoology student has graduated from the University of Cumbria alongside the sign language interpreter who supported her degree.
Chloe Beer, of Durham, crossed the stage at the university’s graduation ceremony this week with British Sign Language interpreter Andy Long.
Andy, originally from Glasgow and now living in Maryport, helped make lectures, seminars and fieldwork accessible throughout her studies.
Preparing to interpret the specialist degree meant reading lecture materials in advance, studying scientific papers and researching biological terminology to translate technical concepts into British Sign Language.
Andy said: “Interpreting is not simply translating words. It is understanding the subject well enough to communicate ideas, theories and scientific language accurately in a way that is meaningful and accessible.”
Throughout the degree, subjects ranged from ecology and evolution to animal physiology, conservation biology and genetics.
Where established signs did not exist for emerging terminology, Andy researched agreed scientific signs and explored specialist lexicons.
He would often fingerspell technical terms before providing an explanation of their meaning.
During fieldwork in India, complex concepts such as dendrochronology and geomorphology were broken down into visual explanations.
During her studies, Chloe was also supported by her tutor, William Hoppitt.
Chloe said: “It shows what is possible when accessibility is treated as an essential part of education, rather than an afterthought.
“Over the course, Andy has been so much more than my interpreter. We have worked side by side through every lecture, field trip and assignment. We built a strong bond based on trust and understanding, and I honestly could not have achieved this without his support.
“Sharing graduation day with him feels just as important as sharing it with my family because he has been such a big part of this journey.”
The University of Cumbria said: “Behind every interpreted lecture are hours of unseen preparation, continual professional development and collaboration with students, academic staff and specialist resources to ensure learning remains accessible.
“The University of Cumbria is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where students can thrive, recognising that success comes from removing barriers and enabling every learner to achieve their full potential.”
