GraduateSchoolPersonalStatement.com
by Dr. Robert Edinger
Helping Applicants Since 2005 
drrobertedinger@gmail.com

Sample 1st Paragraph for the Personal Statement for Admission to an MA Program in Translation

​

Currently a permanent resident of London, I have been living in Europe for the past 14 years, the Netherlands as well as the UK. I look forward to contributing to the diversity of your program as a Somali woman who was raised in Yemen. While out of practice, I speak, read, and write Dutch although not nearly as well as English. My native tongue is Arabic and my central professional dream is to build my own translation/interpretation service working mostly with issues in Arabic/English.

​

I know that many people have the ability to learn a second language to a good standard but I believe that what separates the competent from the excellent interpreter is a genuine fascination with the second language and its subtlest nuances together with an eagerness to constantly expand the depth of their knowledge. I have this kind of passion and interest in the English language. My ambition is to acquire and apply the highest level of skills that will initially enable me to undertake consecutive translation and ultimately to act as a simultaneous interpreter at conferences and it is for this reason that I am applying to one of the finest Master’s Programs in Translation in the world, XXXX University.

 

Graduate Studies in Translation & Interpretation

 

Studying translation and interpretation in graduate school deepens linguistic mastery, boosts professional credibility, and opens doors to specialized, high-impact careers across global industries. ​​Formal training enhances accuracy, cultural nuance, and subject-matter expertise—especially in legal, medical, and technical domains. Translation bridges cultures, spreads knowledge, and supports international business, diplomacy, and humanitarian work.

 

A graduate degree can unlock roles in conference interpreting, localization, publishing, academia, and international organizations. Programs often include training in translation theory and teaching, preparing graduates for academic careers. Programs increasingly combine linguistics, cultural studies, media, and technology (e.g., CAT tools, AI-assisted translation). Many offer focused paths like conference interpreting, legal translation, or audiovisual translation. Flexible delivery models are expanding access, especially post-pandemic. Degrees are often aligned with national or international certification standards (e.g., ATA, UN, EU).

 

Choose languages with strong demand in your target region or industry. Decide between practical vs. theoretical emphasis. Some programs focus on hands-on interpreting; others emphasize research and pedagogy. Look for instructors who are active professionals in your desired field (e.g., court interpreters, literary translators). Consider tuition, location, and whether online options are available. Some programs are surprisingly affordable and flexible. Clarify whether you aim to freelance, work in institutions, teach, or conduct research.

 

Interpretation especially requires consistent, intensive practice to build speed and accuracy. Constructive critique from trained professionals is essential—one of the biggest benefits of formal study. Translate diverse texts and record interpreting sessions to showcase your skills. Join professional associations, attend conferences, and connect with alumni. Learn CAT tools, subtitling software, and AI translation platforms to stay competitive.