posted 29 July 2006 00:52              

I'm new to this board, as well as the field of translation, which I decided to explore.
I'm a German national living in the US (5 years). I was raised bilingual (German/Serbian), but I consider my Serbian too weak; thus, I've chosen English & German as my language pair.

Currently, I'm taking an online course in order to become a certified proofreader, as I'll need something to "keep me above the waterline" while I get my career in translations rolling. I know I have a lot of work lying ahead of me, but I'm confident that eventually, I'll reach my goal.

Anyway, I have a few questions I hope you'll be able to answer for me:

1. Are there any "templates" available for the translation of documents (birth/death/marriage certificates, diplomas, etc.)?
I find these difficult to translate, as the language and form are quite specific.
2. I would like to specialize in medical/pharma translations; could you advise me of a second/third field in which I should specialize? Again, is there any specific study material available?
3. In order to gain some experience, I would like to start with the translation of comparatively simple texts (news articles, book excerpts, etc.).
Do you know of any translators/agencies (online) that would take on the role of mentoring (checking my translations, and correcting them, if necessary)?
4. Can you recommend any translation aides, such as specific dictionaries?
I "took a peak" at some software (TRADOS), but that's out of the question at the time being, as it's too expensive...

Last, but not least: does anyone on this board have any (old) study material for sale?

I'd appreciate any feedback, and want to thank all of you in advance!
:bounce