The Linguist

@Linguist_CIOL JUNE/JULY The Linguist 29 INSTITUTE MATTERS Juliana Lovato, Study Affiliate I enjoyed everything about the conference, and think it was even more special this year as we were all back together again in person. It felt amazing to catch up with old colleagues and meet new ones. I also liked the fact that it was over two days, and the venue was a great choice. The presentations were varied and incredibly well prepared; the linguists sharing their knowledge and experience were enthusiastic and passionate; and I think this is always remarkable at CIOL events: how much we all love what we do and take pleasure in talking about it. The opportunity to network over coffee and lunch breaks was well thought out, and the refreshments were plentiful and delicious. And, I have to say, Susie Dent as a guest speaker topped all charts! I was awarded my DipTrans (Diploma in Translation) in 2020 and am now preparing to sit my DPSI (Diploma in Public Service Mohammed Habdar ACIL After a period of solitude because of Covid-19, and too many virtual meetings and conferences, it was an absolute delight to engage face to face again. Breaking out of the recently built 'comfort zone' felt good, allowing me and many of my fellow linguists to focus better and gain new perspectives. Given my very recent start in this career, and the limited experience I have had with it, attending CIOL Conference for the first time, and meeting more professional and diverse linguists, has enlightened my path, revealing options that were previously beyond my knowledge. On top of that, I had the chance to share and learn tips and tricks that contribute to my professional day- to-day tasks. But perhaps the most critical outcome of these sessions is the reflective journey they've taken me on, helping me to understand my own qualities, skills and abilities, and how to develop them. It was a 'sharpen the saw' experience for me, as I returned to the office with new ideas and approaches that made me more effective and efficient. As a new CIOL member, having joined last year, I am certain that I will attend future conferences and hope, one day, that I may even participate as a speaker. I recommend that fresh starters like myself attend the event, and gain the experience and help they may not even know they need. Interpreting) exams, so this year I chose presentations mainly about interpreting. I learnt several practical lessons, particularly with regard to working with clients in challenging settings, and how to deal with unexpected situations when interpreting for mental health patients and family court proceedings, which are areas I have been working in. It was also interesting to pick up general knowledge, such as the emoji session, which was very useful indeed. Some talks were tremendously entertaining, so I had fun while learning. I left the conference feeling refreshed in my knowledge, motivated, and full of good ideas for my freelance business and ongoing career plans. I have attended CIOL conferences since 2018 and intend to go every year – they are so worth it! 3 4 5 6 I set up as a freelance French and Italian to English translator and interpreter in 2021, and this was my first ever conference. I loved the experience and relished being around so many likeminded individuals. It is a highly beneficial way to keep your finger on the pulse of the language services industry, highlighting current, key developments and discussions. I will definitely be booking my ticket for next year! IMAGES © RICHARD WASHBROOKE

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