We need you to interpret right away! Over the years, having worked as a bilingual speech-language pathology assistant and a rehabilitation technician at a rehabilitation hospital, I can remember being asked to interpret for staff and patients that spoke Spanish—often with no warning or time for preparation. Many times, I was nervous about interpreting Spanish, even though I spoke the language fluently. Interpreters are highly-skilled professionals that deserve much respect and admiration. Having been utilized as a non-trained interpreter in situations that require a professional, trained interpreter, I have firsthand knowledge of the many misconceptions related to the skill level and wherewithal that goes into interpreting for others.
Interpreters are not required to obtain a college degree although many interpreting companies require certificates in the language(s) and settings (e.g., medical, educational, or government) in which one will interpret. Having been catapulted into situations that required professional interpreting, helped me to appreciate the beauty and fragility of the skill—one inaccurate interpretation and chaos might ensue. Each interpreting experience taught me some new things. Here are some of the things I have learned through my experiences.
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Being knowledgeable of key vocabulary I was being asked to interpret
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My first interpreting experiences occurred in the medical setting. After my first couple of experiences interpreting for others, I quickly learned that despite being a fluent Spanish speaker, I needed to become familiar with medical terminology quickly.
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Keep an open dialogue with the professionals/patients you are interpreting for
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In many languages, it is impossible to interpret word for word from English. Keep in mind it is imperative to interpret accurately, as diagnosis, interventions, decisions are based on the information being interpreted.
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Awareness to different language dialects is important
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Many common phrases in English do not translate into other languages. The use of the appropriate word to interpret may vary by dialect.
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Sensitivity to culture
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Culture mannerisms, beliefs, and traditions are good areas to acknowledge for when interpreting.
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Needless to say, I am grateful for the catapulting interpreting experiences throughout my career. In the midst of some stressful situations, I was guided to see the importance of an interpreter. The skills and knowledge an interpreter possess are important to bridge communication barriers in a world full of beautiful languages.
If you or someone you know needs the services of a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist, please be sure to discuss your concerns with a physician, a speech-language pathologist, or another qualified provider. You can also find a provider through the ASHA ProFind service or visit us at www.bilingualspeech.org for more information. Additional information on this topic can be found at stutteringhelp.org or at asha.org. NOTE: This article is intended only as a general source of information, i.e, it is not intended to replace information given to you by a qualified health professional that is familiar with your particular circumstances. Lastly, if you have an urgent medical need, please seek immediate medical attention.