There is some special work in Daegu University called text translation work. Text translation work plays a role in entering the class of deaf classmates and typing the professor's words directly. Compared to other work it is not well known and unfamiliar, so I have included an interview with a text interpreter student to publicize this work.

Q1. What do you do as a text interpreter?

A1. People with hearing impairments need 'interpretation' in many situations, such as when they talk to someone or receive some education. Deaf students who can communicate flexibly in sign language prefer text interpretation. For such students, I enter everything the professor says on their laptop in class to help deaf students understand the class. To work as a text interpreter, you must type at least 400 characters per minute.

Q2. Why did you choose this job?

A2. At first, regardless of the income quintile, I applied because I thought it was a great advantage to be able to work according to the timetable I wanted. I continued to do it because I felt rewarded in that I could improve my general knowledge and be a little help to deaf classmates by taking various liberal arts and major classes together while interpreting text.

Q3. What's the difference between a professor who progresses quickly vs a professor who uses a lot of difficult words for class?

A3. The former is better. I am a text interpreter for a student with hearing impairment majoring in visual design, and sometimes I am worried and stuttering that I will deliver wrong information when technical terms are used. However, in the case of latter, you can type quickly. Rather than typing 100% of the speaker's words, it is better to convey the key elements even if you don't type every single word, but also to convey the atmosphere and situation of the conversation.

Q4. What are some tips for students who want to work as text interpreters?

A4. After matching with a classmate, you should try to work with consistency and responsibility. This is because no matter how fast and meticulous a person is when typing, it is difficult if it does not fit well with a hearing-impaired class. In addition, before starting text translation, it is very important to 'prepare' to share sufficient information on the interpretation and talk with disabled students.

There are many classmates who are unable to get help in class even though they are deaf, because they can not find text interpretation. I hope you show a lot of interest and support.

L.L.F reporter Eun-su Kang