Advanced Diploma of Translating and Interpreting graduate profile

“Before the [Advanced Diploma of Translating and Interpreting] course commenced, I simply expected to have more passage translating practice, but the subjects all turned out to be such pleasant surprises: the theoretical foundations, the discourse and ethics studies, the interpreting challenges in the language laboratories, the pronunciation and speech giving exercises, and so much more. These studies were as much fun as they were useful, and helped sharpen our skills in an all round way, not to mention the practicum where we were tested in different real-life scenarios.”

Intensive Training to Gain Accreditation

“My interest in languages, and the prospect of gaining accreditation in translating and interpreting, made me decide to study the Advanced Diploma of Translating and Interpreting course immediately after I had completed my Commerce Degree at Melbourne University in 2005. I enrolled [at RMIT] in February 2006, and graduated in November the same year.

“I chose RMIT because my first mentor in translating happened to be a teacher there, and by observing him teach, I was convinced that the quality of the staff at RMIT was second to none; also, it seemed to me that RMIT was the only institution to offer a one-year full time course, the most intensive training in the market, and I felt that should be able to do the job right.”

Highlights

“The biggest highlight has to be the teachers. They were simply some of the most interesting, resourceful and dedicated staff I have ever come across.

“This is a group of highly-skilled translating and interpreting professionals who know what they are doing when it comes to imparting their knowledge to the students. They led us in lively classroom discussions, shared with us their invaluable experiences in the field and joked about their life stories. Every student was encouraged to participate, all opinions were respected, and the small class sizes only helped.

“Other Highlights:

• having my own essay published in the Student Work Showcase;
• being selected to interpret for RMIT and a visiting Chinese university;
• obtaining all three NAATI Level 3 Certificates.”

Professionalism Pays Off in Job Satisfaction

“I have been working as both a freelance and contracted interpreter/translator since graduation. My jobs take me to courts, tribunals, law firms, government agencies, business meetings and much more. I feel most rewarded when I see how my role helps solve people’s problems, smooth business proceedings, or simply when I have the gratitude of my clients.

“In all situations, it pays to be professional: your appearance, punctuality, and many other details can contribute to people’s impression of you as a respected and reliable professional. The flexibility of the job enables me to have time for other commitments; the opportunities to meet different people and go to different places help broaden one’s horizon and open different doors.

“I advise prospective students to be eager to participate and contribute in class, for your willingness to learn can only get the best out of the teachers. Also, team up with your fellow students: your methods and thinking do not have to be similar; different ideas often lead to the best solution.”