Name: Jen Mendez
LC position: Student Consultant
Where are you originally from?
Seattle, WA
Where do you currently live?
Portland, OR
How did you become a translator/interpreter?
I began translating informally at the age of 17. I had just begun to learn German in school and enjoyed translating songs as a way to learn new vocabulary and get more exposure to the language. I realized pretty quickly that I kind of liked this whole translation thing and by the end of high school, I had switched my focus from photography to German with the aim of translating literature professionally. As time went by, I picked up volunteer gigs here and there before landing my first paid job translating clinical trial correspondences in 2020. I’ve been working toward more active involvement in the business and community ever since.
What are your areas of specialization?
Literature, songs and poetry, and medical.
What do you like about ATA?
I love that there are so many opportunities for professional growth! There is a bounty of resources for new and seasoned professionals alike, and the continuing education webinars provide a wealth of valuable information. Not to mention the community of welcoming and likeminded people who are there to offer support!
Tell us about your position on the GLD Leadership Council:
My role is Student Consultant. I will collaborate with the other members of the Leadership Council and offer input on decisions affecting the GLD as a whole.
Anything else you would like to share? (hobbies, interests, etc.):
True to language nerd tradition, I am working on collecting as many languages as I possibly can. I am currently learning Norwegian, Spanish, and Arabic, with more to come. Outside of languages, I am extremely passionate about music and I consider myself to be an artist in both the audio and visual realms. In my free time, I enjoy reading, meditation, lifting weights, and spending time with my animals (two cats and a tortoise).