This is a perfect opportunity for aspiring interpreters to gain firsthand knowledge from a seasoned interpreter about working in educational or community settings. Also, meet regularly with other interpreting interns and mentors to discuss the discoveries and progress you make during your practicum. A mentorship is a wonderful way to expand on information you have learned in class and cap off your time in the program. Prerequisite: Interpreting IV or instructor’s consent.

Mentors: Staff interpreter/mentors

Interpreter Education Courses

You need more than conversational ability in ASL and English to be an interpreter. Since the profession serves a population with varied communication needs and language proficiencies, interpreters must be versatile to meet the challenges that might arise in any interpreting situation. Therefore, interpreters need specific education and training to ensure they can provide quality services to Deaf and hearing consumers. Fluency in both languages, objectivity, flexibility, good judgment, maintenance of confidentiality, and reliability are equally essential qualities an interpreter must possess.

As an interpreting student at KCC, you take courses covering the following areas: the interpreter’s role; an historical overview of the interpreting profession; public speaking techniques in ASL and English; Deaf Culture and Community awareness and sensitivity; intercultural and cross-cultural interactions; linguistics; ethics and decision-making; models of interpretation; the process of interpretation; text analysis; interpreting preparation; team interpreting; transliteration; business practices; the various situations in which an interpreter might function; and extensive guided practice in the skills necessary for interpreting. If you are pursuing a career as an educational interpreter in K-12 settings, your courses provide you with the information and skills necessary to work effectively in those settings.

Whether you receive an Associates degree or a Certificate of Completion from the College once you successfully complete the Interpreter Education Program, you should understand you are not certified. Rather, you are a trainee ready to accept basic, entry level interpreting assignments. The path towards certification is a lengthy one, requiring continuous study, practical experience and guidance. To facilitate this process, professional development opportunities, mentoring and credentialing preparation workshops are offered through the program.