How to Become a Spanish Interpreter

You can become a Spanish interpreter.

When you're bilingual in Spanish and English, becoming an interpreter seems like a natural choice for a career. Interpreting requires native-level fluency in both languages. You can act as an interpreter from home over the phone, at conferences, in hospitals or in the courts. Different types of interpreting jobs have different requirements, so double-check that you are on the right path for employment.

Instructions

1. Take interpreting courses. Some colleges offer interpreting as a major or minor, or have individual courses in interpreting. There are also intensive programs in which you study interpretation several hours a day for a week or two. Attending these classes will give you the skills you need to interpret--it involves more than just speaking two languages. You have to listen closely to what the person is saying and be able to quickly convey that message--and all its nuances--to the other person.

2. Take certification exams, if required. The U.S. court system requires its Spanish interpreters to pass both a written examination and an oral one. The Administrative Office of the U.S. Federal Court Interpreter Program administers these exams--each one only occurs once every other year, so the certification process will take at least two years. Other certifications are not always required, but can help you to get a job.

3. Gain experience in interpreting. Even if you can't find paid work, volunteer your time so that you can gain experience as a Spanish interpreter. For example, a local school may want to bring a Spanish speaker in to talk to students and you can offer your services.

4. Join the National Association for Interpretation. The NAI offers networking opportunities and certification programs. They can help you to get your career off the ground.

5. Apply with an interpreting company. It's difficult to get interpretation jobs on your own, so when you join a company that offers interpretation services, they'll do the hard work for you. Customers will let the company know that they need a Spanish interpreter and the company will make arrangements with you.

References

• Spanish Translation Help: How to Become an Interpreter

Resources

• National Association for Interpretation