Summit International Studies Academy
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Interpreters and translators make intercultural communication possible through language, idea and concept translation. It is important that they understand the translated material be sensitive and considerate to the cultures in which they work.
Interpreter is often used interchangeably with translator, but they are in-fact, two different types of careers.
Interpreters convert languages into others. They should have a good understanding of what is communicated and be able to make clear and accurate verbal expressions. Strong memory and research skills are also important.
Translators write, analyze, and edit written material to convert it into another language. This process usually entails making an initial pass-over to get a general understanding of the material, researching any unknown words, and doing additional research on the subject that may be unclear. They also correspond with original source providers or organizations that issue the documents.
This program is for juniors and seniors interested in careers in interpretation or translating.
Credit hours
You can earn three units of high school credit.
What you’ll learn.
Summit International Studies Academy (SISA) will provide you with an in-depth exposure to major regions and languages of the world. You will work with industry-standard technology and train members of the community in world cultures.
SISA is a long-term, corporate simulation, which means that the classroom is run like a business environment as you become active, intercultural consultants within the community. You will also operate in a team and have responsibility for professional conduct.
This program is designed for your work with your team in a self-directed learning environment. You’ll interview for teams, showcase your unique skills and interests to the team, and receive additional training in economics and political science that you can use to analyze the current global situation.
Schedule
One-year program
You’ll take classes at:
Summit Technology Academy
777 NW Blue Parkway, Suite 3090
Lee’s Summit, MO 64086
Prerequisites
Minimum 2.5 GPA
90% attendance
Reading, writing and math at 10th grade level
Completed or concurrently enrolled in Level II Modern Language
(Computer Applications, Business, Economics and World History are recommended)
Demand and Pay
Below are wages and expected employment growth according to the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment & Training. Administration’s O*NET career exploration and job analysis tool.
Interpreters and Translators (career certificate or associate’s degree)
Median wages: $19.65 hourly, $40,860 annual
Number of people already in the industry: 51,000
Projected job openings (2008-2018): 23,400
Skills, character and physical traits of successful people in this career:
- Curiosity
- Attention to detail
- Bi- or Multi-lingual
- Good problem-solving skills and judgment
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Good verbal and written communication skills for interfacing with clientele
- Memory for sequence and steps in processes
- Desire and ability to master new technologies quickly
- Respect for safety and security of confidential information
- Ability to handle stress
To apply
Contact your high school counseling office to complete an application, student contract and student essay of interest. Your school will determine if you meet the program criteria. If you do not, but your counselor or principal feel you can be successful in the program, they can recommend you.
