Advanced Diploma of Translating and Interpreting graduate profile

“In 2002, I enrolled in the RMIT Diploma of Interpreting course with the intention of improving my English skills, and to utilise my mother tongue, Khmer (Cambodian). I successfully completed this course on a part-time basis, in conjunction with my full-time studies in a Bachelor of Engineering in Telecommunications and Internet Technologies at Swinburne University.

“To my surprise, I greatly enjoyed the Interpreting course, and this enjoyment, coupled with the scholarship offered by the Department of Premier and Community Services, lured me to enrol in the Advanced Diploma of Translating and Interpreting course at RMIT, where the course was offered in Khmer for the first time.

“I completed the course in 2004, with accreditation as a professional translator (NAATI level 3) in English – Khmer.”

Highlights

“The greatest highlight for me was the exposure to a broad range of subjects, both theoretical and practical. I found the course very exciting and challenging - but at the time it was stressful, because of my other study commitments. This, however, gave me an understanding of the fundamental nature of the T & I profession!

“The Practicum (Work Placement) proved to be yet another highlight: I was placed with a T & I Agency in Melbourne. Apart from learning how such an agency operates, I was also flown, at the Agency’s expense, to observe a court process in Mildura with a professional practising interpreter. This gave me an understanding of the practical application of my T & I studies.”

Putting Theory Into Practice

“Having received my Accreditation I was eager to put theory into practice, and I started my own specialised English – Khmer translation service, Khun Translation Services (KTS) in 2005. Since then, I have been servicing clients all over the world, working from home on a part-time basis. At the time I was also employed by an IT company in Melbourne as Network Support Personnel.

“The diverse knowledge that I have acquired from Information Technology and Engineering as well as Interpreting and Translating over the years has allowed me to offer my clients ‘one stop-shop’ services.”

Translating and Interpreting in the Media Industry

“While participating in the Advanced Diploma course, I also undertook work experience with Radio Australia’s Khmer Service, which further enhanced my career prospects in Translation, and resulted in my gaining a full-time position at ABC Radio Australia in mid 2005. I am still there.

“My roles and responsibilities at the ABC are varied, and include translating daily news, and reporting, producing and broadcasting a radio program in Khmer. The responsibilities can be overwhelming at times, but I truly enjoy my work in this industry, where I constantly face new challenges in trying to come up with appropriate translations for new terminologies. This has kept me on my toes. I have been fortunate to meet many interesting people, and occasionally I am given the chance to travel and work overseas.”

The Future

“Regardless of how hectic my work schedule may be I constantly look for study opportunities. Hence I undertook a part-time Graduate Diploma of Social Sciences in International Development at RMIT University, completing it in 2007. I am now enrolled in a Master of Social Sciences in International Development.

“My future intention is to return to RMIT to impart my knowledge and expertise, and share my experiences with other students, by teaching on the Translating and Interpreting course. I also hope to expand my translation business and complete my Masters Degree.”