Cross Checker - C.A.
BA Japanese
Studies Major
8 yrs. experience
Why did you choose to be a Translation Checker?
I really enjoy language and have always enjoyed editing other people’s work. Additionally I think analyzing someone else’s work allows me to learn about my own language and myself. Working in the scholarly and technical fields is very rewarding, because in addition to the service I am providing, I am always learning something new from the things I read.
Translation checking involves thorough knowledge of both the languages – Japanese and English. Can a person be an expert in 2 such different languages?
I believe that each person is always more of a master in one language over others that they speak. Can they be experts in 2 or more languages? Yes, I think so. But rather than being an expert in BOTH languages, I think it is more important for a translator checker to be an expert in how the two languages relate to each other. More specifically, I think it is important for a translator checker to be an expert on how a source language relates to the target language, and then to be an expert on all levels of the target language. This will allow the checker to be able to know exactly how the meaning of the Japanese should be conveyed in English.What is the most remarkable translation checking you have ever done?
I have worked a lot in the intellectual property field. I think it is exciting to be part of the process that brings new innovations and inventions to people, especially when they are life saving or safety devices. Working in the scholarly field and then in the patent field helps you to see how research and development culminate into an actual result that benefits mankind. I remember going to the doctor and being prescribed a medication for which we had done the translation work on, both at the research stage and the patent stage. I remember getting a new phone and seeing the feature we had recently translated the international patent application for. I remember sitting in a friend’s car that was equipped with a safety feature, the patent for which we had translated and reviewed. It is those kind of experiences that make you realize that although I am providing a valuable service, I am also benefitting mankind.
How do you keep yourself updated with the recent happenings in the industry and the subject you check?
I read a lot of newsletters and articles. I try to stay current on translator discussion boards. But more importantly I try to read technical articles and stay current with technology and news. I am not a big participant in the translation community. I guess I have never thrived on that kind of social network, and a lot of times it seems more competitive than helpful. I find it much more helpful to immerse my self in the technical market, to learn or take a class on computer engineering, physics, or something else that will increase my knowledge and understanding of the content I may be asked to work on.
