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Great post Leonisa! I think you got the idea of what we are trying to understand. As you stated, an interpreter “works with spoken language in real-time, while translators work with written text and have more time to refine their work”. Leonisa…let’s take that a step further…according to the manual, an interpreter also “needs to convey…not only the spoken message, but also the feelings and emotions behind the words. This is a challenge – let’s demonstrate it this way: I am sure you have all been to the doctors…Imagine you are with a physician and a “Mrs. Perez.” The doctor asks the patient how she is as he continues typing on his computer. With tears in her eyes, the patient responds, “I’m fine” (Estoy bien). How would you interpret that as an interpreter? To be a true conduit (a role you will learn about next week), you need to give the physician the whole and complete picture of what was said. You would need to convey not just the content “I am fine”, but also transmit the emotions behind the spoken words…THAT IS A CHALLENGE! We are not cold translators…we are indeed interpreters who “explain the meaning”! Never forget this!
Now my official post:
I extend a hearty welcome to you all! I am very excited to be here with you this very first week of class; I am sure you will enjoy your ten weeks with us here! It will be both an intense and yet enjoyable experience. So buckle up and enjoy your time with us. During the course you will be introduced to medical interpreters who have over 10 years experience So…..take advantage of this time with them. Ask them whatever comes to mind, clear up your doubts if you have any.
I started interpreting and translating when I moved to Brazil in 1995 working in the graphics arts field/business field. I grew to have such a passion for communication that when I came back to the USA I stopped my work as a graphic arts technician (working on huge rotary presses) and moved into the translation and interpreting field. I achieved my medical interpreter certificate back in 2002. To be honest I was not very good at medical interpreting as I had a lot of unclear ideas as to anatomy and current medical science. But, with perseverance I can honestly say that I have learned tons and today feel comfortable in any and all medical setting. You will no doubt pass through the same experience, so, be patient with yourself; you are at the start of a marvelous career!
Good studies to you!
Don’t forget to proceed to DISCUSSION BOARD 2
