Case studies : Polish/English interpreter: Magdalena Wieja

I moved to the UK in 2004 shortly after completing my degree and initially aimed to build up my UK work experience. In 2006, I found a varied role within a company which involved teaching English to migrant workers, as well as acting as a mentor, teaching life skills, translating and interpreting. This role was invaluable in strengthening my communication skills and also allowed me to develop an excellent understanding of cultural differences which is essential for interpreting.

Within interpreting I have worked a great deal in the public sector. This can involve anything from attending housing and social service interviews though to visiting job centres, hospitals and police stations. This has meant that I have had to develop an excellent understanding of the sector and the jargon associated within it in order to be an effective interpreter.

Moving into freelance work was something that I always wanted to do but was unsure as it does not offer the same security as full-time employment. However, throughout my time in the UK, I have worked tirelessly to network within the Polish and UK communities and to develop a professional reputation. This has paid dividends and since moving into freelance work I am working full-time and often have two or three jobs a day.

I am a qualified member of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) and appear on their register of practitioners. I also have my own website and am registered with a range of agencies, which has led to the majority of my work.

Interpreting can be tiring and you must be able to concentrate for long periods of time. It is also essential that you are able to react to different situations quickly. You need to process information quickly, as thinking in two languages can be very challenging! No two days are the same and you have to be flexible in order to meet the demands of freelance work, in that you have to be prepared to react to offers of work at very short notice.