Min-Jiun Tsai’s Story

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I have been working as an interpreter at LanguageLoop for just over two years. It doesn’t seem like a very long time as it’s been the most rewarding job I have ever done.

I was born in Taiwan and migrated with my parents to Australia close to 22 years ago. As a new migrant I was the only one in the family who could speak English well. I was almost always the one answering the door, answering phone calls, dealing with people and handling appointments etc. There weren’t interpreting services available at that time, or it wasn’t readily available like it is now.

What inspired me to be an interpreter was that around eight years ago, I was accompanying my Aunt to a medical appointment. The hospital booked an interpreter for her so I sat through the whole process, but was unsatisfied with how little information was passed on to her. Seeing how confused and desperate my Aunt was at that time, I told myself that if I was ever given a chance to be an interpreter one day, I will remember that helpless feeling and transfer all the information given by the professional fully, clearly and accurately.

That thought didn’t eventuate until three years ago. I had a stable book keeping job but was wanting a change. I was looking for a skilled based job that allowed me to connect with people, provided variety and flexibility and allowed me to give back to society. Interpreting ticked all the boxes.

The feeling after finishing an interpreting assignment, when both the professional and the non-English speaker thank you for your assistance in making the communication process smooth, is extremely rewarding. I love meeting different people, learning their stories and helping them out every day. It suits my personality well and it makes my life more meaningful.

A professional once complimented me after a session. She told me what made my interpreting outstanding was not only due to my language skills, but my interpersonal skills where I was able to connect with the non-English client and make the whole conversation flow fluently. She was fascinated with the body language between me and the non-English speaker. I often have clients approach me after a session to thank me for not missing any of their questions they raised, no matter how small.

I cherish all the interpreting jobs given to me and I always strive to give my best. I am very fortunate to receive so much encouragement and recognition from people.

Finally, I would like to thank LanguageLoop for providing me with such a variety of jobs. I am continually learning, contributing and improving all the time. Interpreting gives me so much good energy and makes me happy every day.

Interested in becoming a LanguageLoop interpreter or translator like Min? Find out more including how to apply or email us at apply@languageloop.com.au.

This blog post is brought to you by LanguageLoop, Australia’s leading language services provider. With our commitment to facilitating communication across diverse Australian society, we turn words into possibilities.  Follow us on social media to learn more.

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