This year, I received a reminder that if I don’t obtain my continuing education credits, my healthcare interpreter certification will expire!

This would mean that in order to re-certify, I would have to start over by taking a 40-hour language course, followed by a written test that if I pass, will allow me to take the oral test.

I really don’t want to do all that again so immediately searched online and found a class to take. In the past, I feel like I kind of cheated a little by choosing courses that I was already familiar with. In other words, easy classes.

This time however, I decided I wanted to learn something new. I took a course I knew very little about. The healthcare system in the United States. I found the course very informative and fascinating, and so I did indeed learn a lot.

However, learning the information in order to pass the test was challenging for me. I also found the glossary of terms more difficult to memorize. What would have normally taken me a couple of days to learn, took me a couple of weeks!

Now I am getting ready to take another course. I have a choice, to go easy or challenge myself again. I am intrigued by mental health and am considering taking a course to familiarize myself with mental health in the US and its terminology. If I do this, I am a glutton for punishment.

I am asking for another couple of weeks of labored studying while still running my business.

However, isn’t that the point? Becoming certified isn’t the goal, it’s the beginning of a lifelong journey of personal study and growth in my chosen profession.

When you use a certified interpreter, you are working with someone dedicated to the craft of interpreting. Certification not only proves that interpreters passed an exam and possess at least the minimum skills required, but also they continue sharpening their knowledge, skills, and abilities through continuing education. It reveals true dedication!

I’m sure there are some individuals without a certification that might even do a better job than some with one.  However, you, the monolingual person, has no guarantee of proficiency save certification.   If that is the case and their language pair has certification available, then they should begin and complete the certification process. It is very important in every industry to maintain a trusted standard. Certification is the basis for that standard. If someone is that good, imagine how capable she will be with continued study and practice!