Using Your Languages: Interpreting and Translation

Ten language students from year 12 and 13 had the opportunity to attend an excellent and inspiring careers event at Bath University last Wednesday. They were privileged to hear two eminent speakers, Helen Campbell Director of the National Network for Interpreting who outlined the career of interpreters with special reference to the EU and Dr Steve Slade, Head of English Translation at the International Court of Justice, the Hague. Students could not fail to be impressed by the jet setting life of Helen Campbell whose work included interpreting in a cable car over the Alps, at 10 Downing Street and in Jamaica. The life of a translator appeared more regular but none the less interesting. It was reassuring to hear that there is a shortage of English mother-tongue graduates for language services all over the world and bilingual students do not necessarily have an advantage. Both speakers clearly outlined the qualities and skills needed, where to find good training and how to embark on a career. Many students availed themselves of the opportunity to ask questions of the guest speakers and also lecturers on the Translation and Interpreting Courses at Bath University. The day culminated in the opportunity for pupils to visit the interpreting laboratories at Bath and try their hand at conference interpreting, an experience which they all relished.