Audrey Lin, Interpretation Track Year 2

As the seasons change, I find myself in the second year of my journey in GPTI. Reflecting on my expectations when I first entered, I am struck by how far I have come. In the beginning, I struggled with feelings of inadequacy and impostor syndrome. I often questioned whether I had made the right decision, and whether the immense stress I felt might affect my mental well-being. Fortunately, with perseverance and support, I gradually found my footing.

When I first took the basic consecutive interpreting course, anxiety was a constant companion. I often wondered whether I was truly capable of meeting the challenges ahead. I was overwhelmed and even thought of quitting. Thankfully, I had friends who encouraged me, guided me through difficult moments, and helped me escape the overwhelming self-doubt that threatened to consume me.

The pressure and stress were, at times, difficult to endure. I found myself questioning late at night: Why did I choose this path? Had I really thought it through, or was it a momentary impulse? I even developed stage fright after joining the program. Standing at the podium, I sometimes found it hard to speak. Even if I could steady my voice, my body would tremble uncontrollably. Even now, I need to take a moment to calm myself before every consecutive interpreting assignment — and sometimes, during it.

A turning point came during a heartfelt conversation with Ashley, who was in her second year at the time. I confided in her about my struggles, especially my language proficiency and ability to process information. Her encouragement and honest advice helped me see that I was not alone and that growth was possible. What I remember clearly, even now, is when she said, “I also questioned myself in the first year. Watching the seniors in the booth, I often asked myself if I could ever reach that level.” Her words perfectly captured what I had been feeling, reminding me that even those ahead of me had once stood where I stood, facing the same uncertainties.

I had always envisioned following the same path as the seniors — completing all the courses and then passing the professional exam. However, when the moment arrived, self-doubt crept in. Could I keep up with the demands of the program? Would I become a burden to my boothmates? I sought guidance from my professor and classmates. Their encouragement, coupled with constructive feedback, allowed me to picture my future more clearly. Sometimes, comments from our peers can reveal what we cannot see in ourselves. After completing the final exams for my advanced consecutive interpreting and basic simultaneous interpreting courses, I used those results as a benchmark. I determined that while there was still considerable room for improvement, I was ready to take the professional exam — not because I was perfect, but because I believed in my capacity to improve.

One of the most rewarding moments of this journey came during the most recent session of the Drunken Moon T&I Forum, where I was appointed as the interpreter. Yes, there were materials to prepare. Yes, the pressure to perform was real. But for the first time, I found myself genuinely enjoying the process. Being in the booth, supported by a thoughtful and attentive boothmate, reminded me of why I chose this path. It is this mutual support and shared pursuit of excellence that make interpreting so meaningful.

Letting go of past frustrations, I am ready to begin a new chapter with interpreting. It is like a married couple who constantly argue over small, insignificant things, only to one day realize that this fixation on the details causes friction. By recognizing these patterns and releasing unnecessary tension, both life and interpreting become more manageable — even refreshing. This shift in mindset has allowed me to embrace the challenges and joys of interpreting with renewed enthusiasm.

Looking back, my journey in GPTI has resembled the changing seasons. The first semester was a beautiful autumn, filled with curiosity and new beginnings. The second semester felt like a scorching summer, testing my endurance. The third semester was a turbulent typhoon followed by a harsh winter, pushing me to my limits. Now, as I enter my fourth semester, it feels like spring — a season of renewal, growth, and hope. I look forward to what lies ahead, ready to face future challenges with resilience and confidence. I have caught my second wind in this gentle spring breeze.