Working in the Bayou

I have not written much the last couple of months. I had a writer’s block and just could not figure out how to get my mojo back. Enter a last minute trip to work at a remote location in Louisiana. What an experience!

Here’s a few tips for traveling interpreters. Always carry an umbrella. You never know when the sky is going to break. Always carry socks even if the forecast is “sunny and warm”. A sweater, plenty of water, steno pads, multiple pens, and make sure you have multiple map applications. A sandwich or fruit is always a good idea as most detention centers are located far away from restaurants and convenient stores.

If torrential rain gets in the way, maintain a good attitude. No one wants to work with a grouchy interpreter. Get there early. Don’t carry a lot of jewelry as you will most likely have to remove all or most of it in order to enter a secure facility.

Don’t ever lose your sense of humor. No one likes a Debbie Downer.

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Author: Francesca Samuel

Francesca is an interpreter with 20 years of experience in immigration (EOIR). She has been a member of ATA and NAJIT since 1998. She is a tireless volunteer and serves in various committees. Francesca is also a member of the board of directors of Arizona Translators and Interpreters, where she served as president from 2012-2016. She is the current chair of the Immigration Interpreters Committee of the National Assoc. of Judiciary Interpretes and Translators.

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