Behind the CETRA Scene: Interview with a Spanish Translator, Erika Castro

Name: Erika Castro

Location: Guayaquil, Ecuador

1.)    What languages do you work with?  What are some of the intricacies or challenges of the particular language you work with?

I work from English into Spanish and Portuguese. I also work from French into Spanish but those requests are, unfortunately, very rare.

The biggest challenge is the variety of vocabulary nuances among the many countries where Spanish is spoken. Although the language is the same, there are some circumstances where the vocabulary and style are different and it’s hard to come up with a unique version that would work for all Spanish-speaking countries.

2.)    What are some of your most interesting projects? Why?

One of the most interesting projects I’ve worked on was the website of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. The information was pretty shocking and hard to assimilate, but the historical facts made the project quite enlightening and worthy of profound reflection.

3.)    What is the best part about being a translator? What do you love about it?

One of the best parts of being a translator is learning different things every day. This is one of the most educational jobs! And I love the fact that thanks to my work I’m touch with people from different countries and cultures.

4.)    How did you know you were “ready” to be a translator?

I didn’t think about it too much. Once I had my degree and got to do an internship in a large localization agency, I just threw myself into it and never stopped learning since then.

5.)    What is the most difficult part about your job?

Possibly the tight deadlines and time management since all requests are important.

6.)    Can you translate a sentence for us? Your favorite quote? Your favorite word?

This is something I say a lot, especially when things get too hectic: “¡Me encanta mi trabajo!” (I love my work!)