Irene Do: My New Journey in Alabama

Hello, A-KEEP Supporters! My name is Jaeyeon Irene Do. I came from Seoul, South Korea to be the Team Leader for Research and Development in Special Education. I am excited to be on this new journey with A-KEEP. Coming to Alabama was a huge challenge in my life. Even though I have traveled to many countries with my wanderlust, moving to another country was hard, especially in this pandemic period. However, I knew that I needed a big challenge both in my life and career. I could not resist my gut telling me that A-KEEP would be my great challenge!  

A-KEEP is working with ACDD (Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities) to establish a standard and build a program that will certify professionals as English Korean Educational Interpreters with Special Education. I am expecting to collaborate with various organizations connected to intellectual and physical disabilities. I love Special Education, and this is not only about teaching, but knowing one person deeply. As a person who enjoys meeting new people and experiencing new cultures, it is wonderful to focus on one person and get to know all the social connections that person has. Disability is not a handicap but one of the wonderful diversities of life. I am honored to know these diverse and beautiful people. To support their happy life, the goal of my career is to keep studying and working in the special education field. Indeed, there is still a long way to go to advocate for people with disabilities and I strongly believe that A-KEEP could be the one that helps to bridge that gap.  

By Jayeon “Irene” Do