A second language is absolutely essential in some careers, like that of a translator or interpreter.
We speak with NAATI-qualified translator Jacqueline Skewes, who translates documents and texts from Italian or Spanish into English.
Where does your love for the Italian language come from?
It began in Italy. I actually wanted to learn French at school, but I lived in country Victoria and it wasn’t available so I took Italian instead. The language didn’t come alive for me until I stood in the country and saw the history with my own eyes. I fell in love with Rome first, and haven’t looked back. I think sneaking into the colosseum at midnight so my mate could sing Italian opera was what finally clinched it for me
What was your study pathway?
I started studying Italian at a Catholic high school, but three years later I moved to another country town and that opportunity was gone. I did one more year by correspondence (I still have my first tape!) but it’s no way to learn a language, especially not in the pre‑internet days. Eventually I picked it up again at university bringing my total years in Australia to six. Not that it mattered though, they sent me straight back to beginner’s class when I arrived in Italy! There’s nothing like learning a language in situ, and since then I’ve studied in Taormina, Montepulciano, Rome, Siena, Urbania, Florence and Venice. I usually go for a few months at a time, so the years start to add up. I passed my CILS C1 back in 2011, but I’m still working on C2! Speaking is still the hardest part for me.
What does a typical day at work look like?
Everything is done via email, with me sitting at my desk typing in my pyjamas. I have the freedom to work whenever I want, so I like to do a yoga class at lunchtime or take a walk on the beach and laugh at everyone else who is stuck in the office with a bad boss. I’m always connected to the internet though, and never go offline.
What is the biggest challenging of being a translator?
Being a jack-of-all-trades. You need to be an expert in medical, legal, finance, engineering … Yesterday I was translating a fashion blog, today I’m working on research into human reproductive systems and gametogenesis. Seriously.
What do you love the most about your job?
I love being able to work from anywhere in the world, as long as I have an internet connection. I try to skip the Melbourne winter as often as possible.
What has been your biggest career highlight so far?
Coming runner up in the IIC Prize for Italian Literary Translation in 2016. The winner got return flights to Italy, one month accommodation in Rome and $3000 spending money. I got a bag of books.
In your opinion what are three skills needed to become a successful translator?
Attention to detail, a love of languages and an open mind.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a career in translating?
Do it! It is the best job ever. I wish I’d known about it when I was younger. It’s not well paid, but the perks are amazing.
