The bilingual mind
Once needing an interpreter herself, Shqipe is now a qualified Albanian Interpreter working for Vandu. We had the pleasure of speaking to her in-between her busy duties as a mother to 2 boys and here we share her experience with you…
Hi Shqipe, can you tell us about your background?
Before I moved to the UK I was a primary school teacher for 7 years in Albania. I came to the country with a very basic understanding of the English language but eventually, through a friend, I found Vandu.
How did Vandu help you?
I had some very important hospital appointments, which without an interpreter I would have really struggled to have understood the process; this experience made me realise how important and useful an interpreter is.
Why did you want to become an Interpreter?
Both my brothers are interpreters which definitely inspired me to take on the challenge of being able to do it myself. Having the opportunity to practice with them really helped me in developing my skills, I quickly discovered the more I practiced the more I wanted to learn. Even though I am now a qualified interpreter I still have a passion to study, learning is like consuming good food, you never want to stop. It’s an extremely interesting and varied job and not only are you helping others but yourself as well.
What has been your favourite interpreting experience?
I love interpreting in general, knowing that you’re making a client happy seeing that they trust you is very rewarding. I love the diversity of the job, working with social services, hospitals and solicitors among many others, you never know what job is next.
What advice would you give to fellow interpreters?
Preparation is key. It’s crucial as the interpreter to research the topic of conversation for key words or phrases that may be specific to that interpreting session. Also working out the best way to help both client and service provider can ensure that everyone can be satisfied. Finally, it’s essential to not become too close to a client, you are there to perform a role to your highest ability but not befriend them in the process.
What is your future?
I want to carry on interpreting with Vandu, whilst investing time into developing my skills and knowledge. I have been working as a court interpreter since 2015 and a community interpreter since 2013. I am also working on an online DPSI law course, which once completed means I will be able to interpret within the public service sector. One day I may go back to teaching but whichever path I choose I will never stop craving the hunger to learn.
Vandu Language Services is based in Lewes, Sussex and has been helping organisations overcome the language barrier since 1999. We provide interpreting, translation, bilingual advocacy and cross cultural training for when you need to communicate clearly across cultures.
