How I Became a Professional Interpreter
By: Andy Ta
My journey as a professional interpreter began unexpectedly with a new life in America. At first, I worked as an English teacher for fellow Vietnamese immigrants. Little did I know, a chance encounter would open the door to a career that would span over four decades.
One day, a public defender walked into the adult school where I was teaching. He asked if I would help him communicate with his client, a man charged with murder, at the local jail. I agreed without hesitation, not realizing that this moment would spark a passion in me for interpretation. As I interpreted, I felt an incredible sense of purpose and satisfaction, something I had never experienced before. That one encounter ignited my interest in the field and pushed me to pursue it as a full-time career.
A Path Defined by Language and Purpose
Interpretation wasn’t just a career; it became a path that allowed me to blend my love for languages with my desire to make an impact. Though I once thought about joining the Foreign Service or practicing law with my legal background, interpretation gave me a unique way to use my skills in a deeply meaningful way.
I’m grateful to that public defender who saw something in me and encouraged me to step into this field. It led me to opportunities that many only dream of, from interpreting for major legal cases to international missions.
40 Years of Experience and Lessons Learned
Over the course of my 40-year career, I’ve worked in high-stakes environments, interpreting for critical legal and diplomatic matters. Along the way, I learned that success in this field requires more than just technical language skills. It takes a cool head under pressure, an open mind, and a willingness to learn and adapt in the face of new challenges.
Each assignment, each case, has taught me valuable lessons — both professionally and personally. I've been fortunate to have been part of significant moments in history, helping bridge communication between different cultures and perspectives. But I’ve also learned that no matter how experienced you are, there’s always something new to learn in this field.
Advice for Aspiring Interpreters
For those considering a career in interpretation, here’s my advice:
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Do What You Love: If you're passionate about languages, interpretation can be incredibly rewarding. While it takes time and hard work, the satisfaction of connecting people through language is unparalleled.
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Strengthen Your Listening and Speaking Skills: A good interpreter must be a strong listener and communicator. You need to absorb information quickly and respond accurately, often under pressure.
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Be Ready to Think on Your Feet: In this line of work, things don’t always go as planned. Flexibility and quick thinking are key to overcoming challenges and making sure the message is delivered clearly.
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Face Challenges Head-On: This career is not without its difficulties. But don’t shy away from the hard moments. Embrace them as opportunities to grow and improve your skills.
A Lifelong Journey of Learning and Growth
Looking back, I realize that being an interpreter has given me much more than just a career. It’s been a lifelong journey of learning, adapting, and connecting with people in ways I never imagined. I’m proud to have helped shape communication in both small and large moments, and I’m excited to continue this work in the years to come.
"Do what you love, and the rest will follow. Interpretation is not just about language; it's about making an impact and connecting worlds."