Greetings to all readers. The author would like to confess that I'm someone who doesn't like complications. I'm a simple person, to the point where anyone who sees me might think, "Is this person from the backwoods?"
I don't like making simple things complicated or making difficult things even harder. If I really have to do something difficult, I'll try to find a way to make it easier first, like asking those who have more experience how they do it. In this case, we'll be talking about interpreting, which is inherently challenging, and becoming exceptionally skilled at it is even more difficult. Those who want to become interpreters probably want to hear real experiences from interpreters who have been through it all. So we decided to interview an interpreter who has worked with us on several projects about their background, education, why they became an interpreter, and whether they've faced any challenges in their work. We hope this interpreter's answers will serve as an example, an appetizer for those who want to become interpreters and want to get a glimpse of what being an interpreter entails. Let's begin!
Interviewer : What did you study, and why did you decide to become an interpreter?
Interpreter : I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Music. I became an interpreter because it's a language-related job that I like, and I was already working in this field. However, I saw interpreting as particularly challenging. I also wanted to develop myself to do something I once thought I couldn't do, so I started studying interpreting seriously.
Interviewer : Was it difficult for you to train and develop the skills to become an interpreter?
Interpreter : For me, it was challenging because I'm not naturally gifted like many others who might not need much practice. But if it's something we love, spending time and dedicating ourselves to practice becomes fun and not boring. When we see our own progress and receive good feedback, it motivates us to keep improving.
Interviewer : Did you face any obstacles when you first started as an interpreter?
Interpreter : The first time I did RSI (Remote Simultaneous Interpreting), I was very nervous, and the client changed from Thai to English interpretation. But having gone through various forms of training, I told myself to keep going. The situation might not be as expected, but if we worry too much, the job won't get done. I remember that day, I only interpreted for an hour, but I kept looking at the clock to see when it would end. (laughs) But now, whatever happens, happens. I've seen it all. The calmer we are, the better we can handle unexpected situations.
Interviewer : Do you have any advice for those who want to become interpreters?
Interpreter : No matter what field, if we know we like it and are passionate about it, we're on the right track. Personally, I think every job has its pros and cons; it's not perfect in every aspect. Just be flexible and adaptable, and you'll be able to move forward. For interpreting (or any language-related job), you should spend time learning the language you'll be working with, whether it's watching movies, series, or if you like reading books or other activities related to the language you use professionally, you can choose to do those activities more.
I hope those interested in the interpreting profession will gain some useful tips from this interview.
BEYOND INTERPRETER CO., LTD.
If you are interested in a professional language interpreter, you can contact the interpreting company Interpreter Services as follows:
- Email : [email protected]
- Line : @beyondinterpreter
- Facebook : beyondinterpreter
