By Antonica-Roxana Clinciu

As a recent graduate in English Language and Literature, with a fluency in English and a native command of Romanian, I find myself standing at the threshold of a vast linguistic landscape, eager to immerse myself in the art of interpretation and translation. It's not merely a career path I'm drawn to, but rather a calling rooted in a deep appreciation for the beauty and power of language.

I was raised in a culturally diverse environment, where Romanian was spoken at home, and English was acquired gradually. Additionally, I engaged in introductory studies of German and French, sufficient for basic comprehension. The exposure to these languages afforded me the privilege of experiencing varied cultural nuances and perspectives. Each language, in its unique essence, introduced me to different worlds, evoking distinct flavours and atmospheres.

Moreover, I am drawn to the challenge of bridging linguistic barriers and facilitating meaningful connections between people who speak different languages. The art of interpretation requires more than just fluency in multiple languages; it demands a keen sensitivity to context, culture, and tone. Similarly, translating involves not only conveying words from one language to another but also preserving the essence and intent of the original message. Beyond the technical aspects, working with languages offers me the opportunity to be a conduit for empathy and understanding. By facilitating communication between individuals who may otherwise struggle to connect, I believe I can contribute to building bridges across cultural divides and fostering a more inclusive and interconnected world.

As globalization continues to shrink the world, the demand for skilled interpreters, translators, and linguists will only grow, making their role increasingly vital in bridging linguistic and cultural divides. Additionally, advancements in technology have made language services more accessible than ever, opening up new avenues for collaboration and cross-cultural exchange. I am hopeful for the future of languages and language professionals because I see a growing recognition of their importance in our increasingly interconnected world. By promoting multilingualism, embracing diversity, and leveraging technology, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society where languages are celebrated as invaluable assets to be cherished and preserved.

Throughout my academic journey from middle school to university, my passion for languages was nurtured and cultivated by dedicated teachers who inspired me to explore the intricate beauty of linguistic expression. Their guidance and encouragement instilled in me a profound appreciation for the power of communication and the richness of cultural diversity. Their influence not only fuelled my academic pursuits but also shaped my personal and professional aspirations. As a result, I am deeply grateful for the transformative impact they had on my life, igniting a lifelong love affair with languages that continues to drive my pursuits and aspirations.

So here I am, ready to dive headfirst into the wild world of language. It's not just about a pay-check; it's about connecting people, breaking down barriers, and maybe, just maybe, making the world a little smaller and a whole lot friendlier.
 

Antonica-Roxana Clinciu is a native Romanian speaker who has recently graduated in English Language and Literature. She is about to begin a career as a linguist.

Views expressed on CIOL Voices are those of the writer and may not represent those of the wider membership or CIOL.