About Certification Study Tables

The Maryland Governor's Office of the Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing (ODDBHH) hosts free Certification Prep Study Tables twice a month to support individuals preparing for RID and BEI certification exams. These sessions provide a welcoming, collaborative environment where interpreters can study together, practice interpreting skills, ask questions, and learn from peers as they work toward certification.

To further support this initiative, PCRID coordinates certified interpreters who can share their knowledge, experiences, and insights. We also periodically host special topic-focused sessions to provide additional guidance, resources, and opportunities for professional development throughout the certification journey. The next special session is November 10, 2026. 

Questions: pdc@pcrid.org

Join future sessions! Complete PCRID'S Questionnaire added to our Mailing List

November Special Topic: 

Lessons from Failure: Rethinking Exam Prep

Presented by Carolyn Boykins, NIC with Emily Dittmer, NIC as a guest mentor. 

The study table will focus on the CASLI Generalist Knowledge & Case Studies. It is open to any interpreters preparing for the CASLI Generalist Knowledge Exam and/or navigating the RID certification process. Learn why the exam was developed, how it differs from the former NIC Knowledge Exam, and what to expect from the current two-part exam and testing process.

With so much outdated and conflicting information still circulating, we'll address common misconceptions, separate fact from fiction, and explore reliable study resources and preparation strategies!

Drawing on firsthand experience with unsuccessful attempts, changes in testing, and ultimately passing, the CB will share lessons learned about navigating the certification process, overcoming setbacks, and finding study strategies that work.

Additionally you can create study guides, ask questions, share experiences, and connect with peers in a supportive learning environment.

Who Should Attend: Any interpreters (DHH, Coda, Hearing, etc.) preparing for certification & interpreting students. 

This session is free and open to all interpreters preparing for CASLI Exams & Interpreting Students.

A Brave Space with Candid Discussion: 

CB will share their experience of failing the exam and navigating retakes, a moriturim and a new testing system before ultimate passing. 

I failed so you don't have to! 

Presenter: Carolyn Boykins, NIC 

PCRID Vice President (they & he)

Carolyn Boykins began interpreting professionally in 2013, moving to Washington D.C. as a freelance interpreter in 2019. With a focus in community interpreting, mental health, social justice, translation, and legal spaces, Carolyn has dedicated their career to supporting the professional development of interpreters both in formal mentor programs and informal mentorship.

Guest Mentor: Emily Dittmer, NIC

PCRID President, (she/her)

Emily Dittmer has been a freelance interpreter in the Washington D.C. area since 2019, and has been interpreting professionally for 7 years in government, legal, university, and international settings. Emily has worked professionally as an interpreting mentor with emerging interpreters through CORE DC and RIT’s ASL-English Interpretation practicum program.

Non-Discrimination Learning Environment

PCRID does not discriminate based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, age, or any protected class. PCRID is committed to accessible, inclusive learning environments that minimize bias and support full participation