Melissa
How does one become an interpreter?
I'm really interested in becoming an interpreter for a company or something like that, I'm just not quite sure what I have to major in to be able to become one. I'm fluent in both Spanish and English and recently I've been learning Korean and Italian.
Do I have to take business classes if I want to interpret in a company or do I just focus on the languages? #college #language #spanish #interpretation #korean
3 answers
Matthew Ellis
Matthew’s Answer
Your university, or even online programs, often offer specific classes for interpreting in a given language within a given field. For example, I have seen many Spanish medical interpreting classes as well as Spanish interpreting for business. I would recommend studying specific vocabulary for a field in which you have interested interpreting. I too am fluent in Spanish and I still have to think a little harder on how to appropriately interpret things while maintaining scientific accuracy. So I would recommend really familiarizing yourself with the vocabulary of the topic you are interested in for that specific language. I hope this helps too!
Stefani Grothe
Stefani’s Answer
There are college programs that offer simultaneous and consecutive interpretation training. Aside from that, if you become an expert in a specialized area (medical, business, law) it will be even easier to get into this profession. Have you considered trying out as an interpreter at a hospital? Most larger facilities have an interpretation program for volunteers. If you sign up you can find out if this is something that you really feel passionate about.
Rachel Weinheimer
Rachel’s Answer
There are medical interpreting classes that you can take, but there are also courses provided through medical institutions, followed by a test to gain certification.