Why Freelance Translation?

So I have decided to start 2019 by quitting my part-time job in the hopes of making it in world of translation as a full-time freelance translator!

Since I first starting learning French at high school when I was 11, I have adored foreign languages and knew that, at the very least, I wanted to study languages at university. Fast-forward 13 years and I find myself having studied Arabic and French at the University of Cambridge and having recently achieved a Distinction in an MA in Applied Translation.

So why translation?

I have always been fascinated with different cultures and hate the idea that not speaking the same language as someone might hold me back from learning something new. To this end, I decided to pick up Arabic at university, because I found the different alphabet so enticing, like a code that needed cracking…

As for translation itself, I’ve always enjoyed helping others and even found myself naturally interpreting when I could. This was particularly evident when I took part in a French Exchange aged 16 and I had to interpret for my parents who speak very little French. As such, studying translation and starting a career in translation seemed like the obvious next step! This way, I can provide a high quality service and help people to solve their language problems, communicate with new and interesting people and connect with other countries they might never have dreamed of. It’s also why I love tutoring – learning a foreign language can benefit everyone!

But why freelance?

Well, partially it’s a geographical decision. I loved growing up in Norfolk and really wanted to move back here after university, to be near my family, friends and partner.

But, for me, it’s more about the freedom. I can decide which projects I want to be involved in, which means I am really passionate about all of them. I’m naturally a self-motivated and organised person, so the idea of being in charge of my own calendar and projects. I also love the varied nature of the job. I’ve only been working freelance for four months now, but I’ve already completed projects in Human Resources, marketing and non-fiction literature. My ambition for this year is to focus more on literature, as I am an avid reader and my Bachelor’s degree was focused mostly on Arabic and French literature. I would also love to be in a position in the future to offer pro bono services, as I have a background in charity work (more on that here) and, like I said before, love to help people.

Are you interested in my services? Or maybe you have some tips about being a freelance translator? Contact me on verity.roat@cantab.net or find me on social media!