Getting to Know Yourself [INTERPRETER]

Before diving in to work with a mentee it is important to know yourself well. You should be aware of your viewpoints, biases, strengths, and weaknesses as well as how these will impact a mentee. Answer the following questions to help you gain a full understanding of yourself. While some questions may seem simple to answer, others might ask you to dig a little deeper into concepts you may not have considered. These questions will be submitted but they will only be checked off as completed by the instructor and will not be shared with the mentee students.

1. Why do you want to be a mentor? (Consider adding more than the simple response of wanting to help new interpreters.)
2. What roles have you held that have involved teaching, either formally or informally (think about things such as presenting workshops and also about less obvious roles like teaching your children or coaching a little league.)
3. What are your greatest strengths in regard to interpreting?
4. What situations will you absolutely will not interpret?
5. What are some areas you wish to improve in regard to interpreting?
6. How do you respond when someone arrives late to an agreed-upon meeting?
7. What do you think a mentee can learn from you?
8. What are your interests or hobbies outside of interpreting?
9. What do you believe your role is as a sign language interpreter mentor?
10. What is different about the new generation of interpreters compared to your generation?

Submit: The answers to the 10 questions, either typed or hand written.