Meet the Community: Karin G.

In this installation of our Meet the Community Series, you’ll meet Karin G., a Lionbridge interpreter for ten years. Karin shares what he finds most interesting and fulfilling about his work, why freelancing with us is a great fit for his lifestyle, and more. Read more in our blog.

Tell us about your work freelancing for Lionbridge.

Working with Lionbridge as a freelance interpreter has been the best working experience in my life. I’m able to work with a schedule that I create. It allows me to handle my everyday tasks. I was even able to recover from an ankle injury I had before starting at Lionbridge. The management has been like family to me and has been there to help when I need it. It inspires me to do my best in every aspect of my job, and I see myself working here for the next 20 years.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

What I enjoy most about freelancing for Lionbridge is the opportunity to work with many different people, situations, and customers. This exposure has allowed me to expand my knowledge and my ability to handle different accents, cultures, and industries.

How did you get into this field?

I remember a friend once asked me if I’d like to work from home. That question was the start of my best work experience.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

My workday starts very early. I wake up in the morning, shower, and prepare my coffee and breakfast. I get my PC ready and support materials to start attending to customers. Throughout the day, I take some breaks. I often go outside for a quick walk, then resume my work.

What kinds of customers do you work with?

I work for so many different customers, from a police officer doing patrol work, to a magistrate performing a hearing, to assisting doctors, nurses, and social workers. Additionally, I assist utility companies and internet service providers.

How long have you been working with Lionbridge?

I have been working for almost 10 years.

How have you seen Lionbridge and its work evolve over that period of time?

Yes, absolutely. Not only the tools and working material, but also the expanded ability for management to continue providing support and training to us.

What excites you the most about the industry you work in?

The chance to work with lots of people. I love connecting with people and helping them communicate with each other.

What is the coolest language task you’ve participated in?

The coolest task has been working in the emergency department in a hospital, attending ongoing surgeries. I worked with people with a variety of different health needs. Helping people get better is the best feeling. I completed special training for medical interpretation provided by Lionbridge.

What do you like most about being a part of the Lionbridge Community?

The Lionbridge community, to me, is about working with people who love what they do. I feel like I’m working with MVPs in each area, and we’re a great team!

Why does freelancing for Lionbridge work for your lifestyle?

Freelancing works well for me. I’m able to accomplish my family and professional tasks without being worried about having enough time for both.

Where do you live, and what do you enjoy most about it?

I live in El Salvador, a small country in Central America. I love that everything is close: the beach, the mountains, the city. I enjoy cycling around the city anytime, too.

What do you like most about the country you live in?

What I like most are the beaches. Sea turtles come here to nest their eggs.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love playing video games. They connect me with family and friends so much. Playing on my own can give me a peaceful escape. I also love riding my bike or playing soccer.

What languages do you speak? What languages are you learning right now?

I speak my native language, Spanish. I also speak English, and I’m halfway through my Japanese classes.

How did you get into cycling?

I got into cycling because, ever since I was a kid, my father (who passed away) used to go out with my sister and me. We used to travel long distances, even on countryside roads. To me, it was a core experience. So was coming back home to our house, where my mom was waiting with wonderful food and the first-aid kit for our usual wounds.

I got into video games because of my parents. My dad loved them, and my mom used to play while she was pregnant with me. I guess I’ve been a gamer even before I was born!