Interpreters Help Us Understand
"As long as different languages exist, there will always be a need for interpreters," reflects CCC interpreter Cristian Numpaque. "Interpreters help people communicate, understand each other, and be heard."
CCC has a team of devoted interpreters who help bridge language barriers. We talked to two of those interpreters to gain a greater understanding of their roles, experiences, and the important work they do.
Shakib Samadi
Native Country
Afghanistan
Languages:
Dari (Farsi), Pashto, English
Professional experience:
10 years
refugee resettlement
USCIS cases
medical and school settings
previously interpreted for US Armed Forces
Cristian Numpaque
Native Country
Colombia
Languages:
Spanish, English
Professional experience:
9 months
Pediatric therapy services
Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU
When /why did you learn additional languages?
Shakib: I started learning English in 2001 in Afghanistan and later continued learning in Pakistan.
The US presence in Afghanistan created lots of opportunities for employment as a linguist and so I became interested to learn.
Cristian: I started learning a second language at school, but it was at a very basic level. It was moving to the U.S. that really forced me to speak and develop my language skills. I found myself interpreting for my sister, parents and coworkers in different situations. Eventually, I began to realize that interpreting was something I was naturally drawn to and that I actually enjoyed doing.
What do you like about being an interpreter?
Shakib: It's a rewarding job, I love it. Our role is a bridge between the provider and the client to provide the best services. I feel great when I help individuals who have language barriers.
Cristian: One of the things I enjoy most is being exposed to so many different specialties, areas of knowledge, and settings. Every assignment can be completely different from the previous one.
It challenges me every day in different ways, and I think that's one of the things that makes this work so rewarding for me. It keeps me engaged, curious, and, in a way, it makes me feel useful.
What is difficult about being an interpreter?
Shakib: Sometimes we face really complicated technical terms and abbreviations. In some cases, providers have no experience working with an interpreter. We may also encounter strange accents and sensitive or emotional settings.
Cristian: Science and medicine are constantly advancing, and language is always evolving as well, so it can be challenging to keep up with new developments and terminology. That doesn’t mean that we are expected to know everything about everything, but it does require awareness and a willingness to keep learning.
Other challenges include the mental load and constant concentration that interpreting requires, and, in some cases, maintaining the boundaries of our role. We’re there to interpret, not to become the provider’s assistant or a counselor.
Do you have any favorite stories about being an interpreter?
Shakib: A family of 11 people moved to the USA recently. They needed someone to interpret for them while applying for a green card. I felt so amazing that through my linguistic skills I could assist this family with achieving a better life.
Cristian: One of the most memorable experiences for me has been when a parent or client takes the time to recognize the work of the entire team. Those moments are very meaningful to me because they remind me that what we do is not just about providing a service. It’s about making people feel heard, respected, and supported during what can sometimes be a very challenging time in their lives.
Speak more than one language? Learn about becoming an interpreter with CCC
