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!
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.
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.