Amy Barnes BA (Hons) Interpreting (British Sign Language/English)
Job: Freelance Interpreter
Location: Wiltshire
"After completing a Level 1 and 2 British Sign Language (BSL) course, my passion brought me to the University of Wolverhampton: the only university to offer the BSL Interpreting degree with the modules and end result that I was looking for. I studied BA (Hons) Interpreting with the aim of becoming a BSL/English Interpreter. The professional status of the course and the outcome of becoming an NRCPD-registered Trainee Interpreter influenced my decision. Currently, I’m working freelance for interpreting agencies, mainly supporting Deaf students in local colleges. I am also a communicator guide for a Deafblind charity that I worked closely with during my time at Wolverhampton.
STUDENT SUCCESS
On a typical day, I will drive to the local college and meet the Deaf student I’ll be working with. Responsibilities change every day but revolve around interpreting conversations between the student and staff, including teachers’ instructions in class. My qualification is invaluable. I have registered as a Trainee Interpreter, with a view to continue my studies to become a Registered Sign Language Interpreter. In addition, I have a broad knowledge of the linguistics, development
and strategic employment of Sign Language. The University’s links to the local and wider Deaf community have allowed me to get involved in various events, including volunteering as a communicator at Deaffest. My work placement was my favourite and most memorable module. I was placed in Sandwell Deaf Community Association, an agency providing Deaf people access to community services with the use of interpreters and opportunities to socialise with other Deaf people. I shadowed interpreters, which put in-class theory into practice and provided useful insights into the life of an interpreter, giving me the confidence to face my career head-on. My greatest achievement is winning the Caparo Prize for my work within the community. It was a huge surprise and I feel so fortunate to be recognised for doing something I really love. Wolverhampton was the only university where I had the ‘this is it’ feeling. To anyone considering studying here, if you’re unsure then just do it! You gain so much more than it costs and it will give you opportunities that might not have been available otherwise."
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