Careers in Translation & Interpreting event

Barely two months after speaking at the University of Manchester’s “Love Languages” event, alumna Melanie Smith was invited to reprise her role at another “Careers in Translation and Interpreting” day on 11 May. Joining industry colleagues from a variety of in-house, agency and freelance backgrounds, Melanie’s presentation provided the Manchester students with a first-hand insight into life as a professional translator.

As a recent graduate of the university, Melanie was ideally placed to demonstrate how the MA in Translation and Interpreting Studies (MATIS) stood her in excellent stead when applying to companies as a newcomer to the profession and armed her with the skills needed to make the transition to working life.

Melanie made the most of her background in recruitment to offer useful tips and tricks for everything from CV writing, test pieces and speculative applications right through to standing out at interview. The aspiring translators were very grateful of the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the session, and some had even come armed with copies of their CVs to share!

On the strength of her contribution to the event, Melanie has since been invited to participate in a short film for the university website to offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse into life as a professional translator. Lights, camera, action!