To help people. I believe the best way to make a difference in the world is by serving others. Interpreting allows me to support providers as they do what they were trained to do, and to help English learners understand important messages pertaining to different topics in their new life in America.

1. Training. The language you speak is your tool. But you need to learn how to use that tool appropriately in different settings.
2. Good English. Your native or heritage language could be really good, but you still need to be able to communicate with the provider in English proficiently.
3. Respect your role. You are not the provider; you are there to support the provider. Let the provider lead and you follow.

I can think of many memories of this nature. One, in particular, happened during a last-minute OPI assignment I accepted. A doctor needed to call his patient to urge him to come to the ER immediately or he was going to die. The patient was misdiagnosed, and the medicine originally prescribed was actually making the situation worse. The doctor needed to communicate to the patient about the misdiagnosis, explaining the results of recent tests, and the new diagnosis. At the end of the call, I had an adrenaline rush going through my body, but I was glad I was able to support the care team as they communicated this vital message to the patient.

I love working for Language Partners because they prioritize interpreter care. At LP, I feel valued, useful, and appreciated. Since day one, the LP staff has been respectful and flexible, and the management team is always there to support you. Through my years working for LP, I have realized that not only am I working for the best language services company in Maine, but I have also become part of a family—a large family of interpreters and staff who give their best every day for the rewarding task of helping others. That is why I choose Language Partners.