What to look for in an interpreter training program
There are many interpreter training programs throughout the world with the goal of helping you to become a better interpreter.
Many of these programs are good at what they do, but it's important to know that there are some things to be aware of when choosing one that is right for you. Theses interpreter programs often focus on different areas or even different modes of interpretation.
Because interpreter training programs are all different, it's important to understand what kind of program you are signing up for. Here are some factors to consider when going through the process.
Mode of Interpretation
What kind of interpreting are you most interested in? Some of the more common types of interpreting are telephone interpreting, simultaneous conference interpreting, sight translating, etc. If you want to work for the United Nations as a conference interpreter, for example, don't go to a training program that will only teach you telephone interpreting.
Subject Matter
This should go without saying, but I'll say it anyways: Make sure you choose an interpreter training program that teaches you interpreting skills in the areas you want to interpret. For example, don't get an interpreting degree or certification from a program that focuses on legal interpreting if you are interested in medical interpreting.
There are some interpreting schools that teach general interpreting skills, but more and more schools are focusing on a specific subjects like law, medicine, or business.
Length of Training
Different programs take different lengths of time to complete. Some are certification programs that might take anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 years to complete. Other training programs are actual university degree programs that could take up to four years to finish.
Training Location
Depending on the program, the location could vary from being at a university or a variety of other locations. There are some translation programs that can be (as least partly) done online but I'm not aware of any interpreter training programs where this is the case. I could be mistaken, however.
Whatever the case, you'll want to choose an interpreter training program that fits in with you lifestyle, whether you're a potential student looking to earn a degree, or a current professional interested in increasing your skill set by becoming an interpreter.
Back to language interpreters.
|
