Here's how you can gain practical experience in the translation industry through internships.

Internships are essential in closing the gap between academia and the professional world. At iDISC, we collaborate with top universities globally to give students hands-on experience that enhances their academic training. Our programs allow interns to work alongside experts, contributing to real projects and developing practical skills that set them apart. Welcoming fresh perspectives makes us more dynamic, as each intern adds value—whether they stay or move on. It's not just interns who benefit; our in-house team is motivated by training and collaborating with new talent. This win-win dynamic drives innovation and growth for iDISC.

In my experience, utilizing professional networks and job boards to find internships is a crucial step. Tailoring your resume to highlight your linguistic skills can really make you stand out.

Gaining practical experience in the translation industry through internships is a fantastic way to build your skills and network. Internships offer hands-on experience with real translation projects, allowing you to apply your theoretical knowledge while learning about industry tools and processes. They also provide insight into client interaction, quality control, and project management, giving you a well-rounded perspective on the profession. Look for internships at translation agencies, NGOs, or multinational companies, and be open to learning from seasoned professionals. This experience can set the foundation for a successful career in translation.

At DSBC Translations, I proactively sought out internships through professional networks and job boards, tailoring my resume to highlight my linguistic abilities and translation projects. My persistence paid off when I landed an internship at DG Global Translations, where I applied my academic knowledge to real-world translation projects. The key is persistence; don’t be discouraged by multiple rejections, as each application gets you closer to gaining that vital industry experience and building a solid foundation for your career.

In my experience, building skills through internships goes beyond just applying language knowledge. It’s a great opportunity to get familiar with essential industry tools like CAT software and terminology databases. This proactive approach can significantly boost your capabilities as a translator. One thing I've found helpful is to make a point of learning from your colleagues about their preferred tools and techniques. This can provide valuable insights and help you become a more versatile and effective professional in the translation field.

In my experience, actively networking during your internship can open doors to future opportunities. Engaging with professionals at events and sharing insights about translation trends can help you build a robust network and gain valuable industry contacts. Treat each interaction with potential mentors and collaborators as an opportunity to learn and grow in the translation field.

One of the main goals of our internship program is to help trainees build strong professional connections. We encourage them to use LinkedIn and all available resources to expand their network. Trainees are guided to actively reach out to our extensive network of collaborators and customers, fostering valuable relationships. Whenever possible, we also have them attend industry events to gain exposure and meet potential mentors and employers. By the end of their internship, we ensure they leave with a stronger network and a tangible, lasting value that will support their future career in the translation industry.

At DSBC Translations, networking was key to my growth. I actively attended industry events and seminars, building connections with professionals who later became valuable mentors. DG Global also encouraged collaboration, and I formed strong relationships with colleagues and clients alike. Through these interactions, I learned more about industry trends and received guidance that shaped my career. Each networking opportunity helped me gain insights into the broader landscape of the translation industry.

In our team, we focus on training interns in Sales, Customer Satisfaction, and the latest techniques, strategies, and tools to ensure they develop into skilled hunters and farmers—whether in Business Development or Account Management roles. We combine Business School-level theory with constant hands-on practice, allowing trainees to apply what they learn in real-world situations. While this is a significant investment, it consistently pays off, both for the interns and our company. By the end of their internship, they have the tools to excel in the field, making them highly marketable and prepared for their future careers.

In my experience, gaining specialization during your internship can make you stand out in the translation industry, not only enhances your skills but also helps you carve out a clear career path in the translation field.

While interning at DG Global Translations, I developed a specialization in technical and legal translations. By focusing on specific areas of interest, I was able to work on high-profile projects, which not only deepened my expertise but also increased my marketability. At DSBC Translations, I was exposed to medical translations, further honing my ability to specialize in various niches. Specializing helped me carve out a clear career path and positioned me as an expert in those fields.

In my experience, regularly evaluating what you’ve learned and enjoyed, along with incorporating feedback, can help you understand which aspects of translation resonate with you and inform your future career choices. One thing I've found helpful is to assess your progress and gather feedback from your supervisors. Embracing both positive feedback and constructive criticism can be incredibly beneficial for your professional growth and help you refine your skills in the translation field.

Throughout my internships, I made a habit of reflecting on my experiences at both DSBC and DG Global. After each project, I evaluated what went well and what could be improved. I also sought regular feedback from my supervisors, embracing both praise and constructive criticism. This reflective process helped me identify my strengths, such as handling complex projects under tight deadlines, and areas where I could further develop, guiding my career decisions.

My experience at DSBC Translations and DG Global Translations became a powerful asset when seeking future employment. I updated my resume with details about the technical and legal projects I worked on, emphasizing the tools I used and the connections I made. During interviews, I used specific examples of how I contributed to translation projects to demonstrate my problem-solving skills and dedication. This experience solidified my commitment to the industry and opened doors to more opportunities.