<p><span class="p-body">For students in the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-translation.html" target="_blank" title="MS in Translation and Interpreting">MS in Translation and Interpreting</a> program at NYU SPS, having a passion for languages and a desire to build bridges between cultures is essential. This is true for Jingyi Du, who grew up speaking Mandarin and Cantonese in Guangzhou, China. A lover of literature, photography, global cuisines, and art museums, Jingyi plans to utilize her language skills and cultural insights to foster cross-cultural dialogue and global understanding, and is one step closer to doing so thanks to the program. We were thrilled to speak with her about her experience at NYU so far, and to learn more about her aspirations for the future.</span></p>
Double Dipping at NYU
<p><span class="p-body">Jingyi describes herself as an "observer of the beauty in life" and an avid reader, even translating poems in her free time. This enthusiasm fuels her academic engine and inevitably led Jingyi to return to NYU for her master’s degree after completing her undergraduate studies here. "Spending my undergraduate and master's years at NYU has been an incredible experience," Jingyi shares. She was particularly attracted to NYU SPS for its philosophy of transformative learning and the way it prepares students to apply translation skills to real-world scenarios.</span></p>
Through participating in the abundant forums and group projects, I have a better understanding of professional language translation through the program’s intercultural and global approach. As I mentioned at the end of my thesis defense, I am excited to carry forward the insights this academic journey has imparted—to read widely, think diversely, and interact broadly.”
<p><span class="p-body">The Translation and Interpreting program’s focus on developing textual, cultural, and technical competencies resonated deeply with her. Jingyi knew that by staying at NYU, she would be in an environment that fosters intellectual engagement and creativity, allowing her to thrive as a language professional. As a student, Jingyi has found NYU to be a place where the exchange of ideas is encouraged, creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">"This magical school offers us all a chance to dive into an atmosphere of intellectual generosity." She values the support of her friends, professors, and advisors, which has helped her develop a better understanding of professional language translation through the program's intercultural and global approach.</span></p>
Embracing New Tech in Translation and Interpreting
<p><span class="p-body">In the MS in Translation and Interpreting program, Jingyi has gained hands-on experience using CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) tools, Machine Translation Post-Editing (MTPE), and QA tools, which have become essential in the translation industry. She highlights courses like <i>Translation Technologies and Machine Translation & Post-Editing</i> as key to her learning, stating that "translation is an art that possesses strong openness, comprehensiveness, and interdisciplinarity [skills]." Her experience with these tools deepened her knowledge and equipped her with the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving world of translation and interpreting.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Through NYU SPS, Jingyi has gained valuable networking opportunities that have connected her with industry professionals and peers, providing a foundation for future collaborations. She emphasizes the importance of staying engaged and informed about the latest trends and advancements in the industry, especially as technology continues to impact the field of translation.</span></p>
Unwavering Support
<p><span class="p-body">While Jingyi currently works full-time in a capital operation position, she plans to continue refining her translation abilities and staying updated on the advancements in language technology, with the aim of bridging cultural gaps and enhancing communication worldwide.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">As she continues to succeed as a student and professional, Jingyi credits her advisors and professors, particularly Stacy Mosher and Jenny McPhee, for shaping her overwhelmingly positive academic experience. She notes their profound impact on her growth as a translator and expresses deep gratitude for their support and encouragement, especially in her work with translating poems and interview records.</span></p>
Advice for New Students
<p><span class="p-body">Jingyi offers valuable advice to incoming NYU SPS students, encouraging them to embrace the multidisciplinary approach of their program and to participate in conferences, speaker series, and networking events. "You might get lost at the beginning, but that’s a normal thing, so don’t stress too much!" she advises. Jingyi believes that staying connected, continuously learning, and immersing oneself in the program's rich offerings are key to success.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">As Jingyi continues to navigate her journey in translation and interpreting, her commitment to bridging cultural divides through language remains as strong as ever.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Take your language skills to new heights when you pursue an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-translation.html" title="MS in Translation and Interpreting">MS in Translation and Interpreting</a> at NYU SPS. </span></p>