Tea Time Re-cap

As Interpreters, we do most of our work in the field alone and during these times we are confronted with different scenarios or conflicts that we have to handle in the spur of the moment. I often leave with the thought, "Did I handle that well? Or, "How could I have handled that differently?" Recently, CAP held a "Tea Time" for interpreters’ forum that provided us with the opportunity to discuss code of conduct, sticky situations, and the process of interpreting in general. We shared blunders and how we handled particular situations.

This casual open forum was such an enjoyable experience, and it certainly gave me more tools for my interpreting tool box. This forum also provided me with a sense of community and support that can be difficult to find in this solitary occupation. After three years of not working as an interpreter then coming back to the field, I feel there are many things that I need to revisit and learn in order to comply with new requirements and expected code of conduct. This forum has provided us with the opportunity to discuss our individual experiences and more importantly to learn from each other.

In a way, I think that I gained more than I contributed but I hope that my brief encounters will benefit others. Furthermore, it is an exciting opportunity for the Spanish and ASL interpreters to get together and learn about our cross cultural interactions. Particularly focusing on how we interpret the code of conduct and apply it within our work.

I encourage you to come to the next "Tea Time" October 29, 2010 so that we can all grow and learn from each other, as well as have an enjoyable time and get to know our fellow colleagues.

Written by: CJ Price