Deb Martinez

Since joining Sign Language Interpreting Mentors via LinkedIn I have worked with two individuals to varying extents. Both were working towards state qualification and/or certification. Our conversations ranged from ethics and working conditions, to educational opportunities, and skills development. The skills development portion takes some time and technical coordination but can be just as successful as live mentoring opportunities. Working with someone from a distance is not any harder, nor any more time consuming, than working onsite. In some ways it is easier for people to mentor at a distance. People coming together for the first time do not have preconceived notions or expectations.  We get to meet and explore interpreting through the eyes of someone who may or may not have shared experiences. The differences in people, locations, skills sets, expectations, and the nature of the mentoring experience have helped me to be a better teacher and interpreter.  

 

My recommendation to those interested in mentoring is offer what time you can, be clear about what your own strengths are, and move where the tide takes you. 

There is no greater reward than paying it forward.

 

Deb Martinez | Dallas/Fort Worth, TX 

RID CI/CT, NIC Adv

BEI Master & Court

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