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What does it take to become a translator?
I am a college senior at St John's University. I am a French major, and I would like to be a French translator.
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Sanja’s Answer
Hi! I would suggest you sign up with translators without borders and start there. I have had an opportunity to help and translate several documents for TWB. It's a good practice and experience. It's easy to sign up and choose what type of documents you can translate as well as choose different languages. I hope this helps!
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Garth’s Answer
Based on the information in your question, it appears that you will receive a degree in French, which is a great start. After that, you may want to consider taking specialized courses in translation and eventually earning a certificate in translation. A good source for translation courses and certification is the American Translators Association. Additional courses and certification aren't required to be a translator, but they can be useful in securing paying jobs. And I agree with previous answers that any translation experience you can gain in the meantime will be helpful. I am also fluent in French and have been doing part-time translation work on the side for some international nonprofits (I work full time as an attorney). Below is a link to an informative article by Indeed on the subject. Hope this helps. Bonne chance!!
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-translator
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-translator
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Kshamata’s Answer
You can start by freelancing or remote jobs. There are multiple remote platforms for translators. This will help you gain some experience by the time you graduate.
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Yao’s Answer
You may need to practice with french translator, speak or connect with french friends, french may become second language some time, read a little bit french books and write 2 or 3 good phrases every day, finally pronounced all french words you have learned.