An interview with M. Marjan, a 2023 CITI University graduate.
— When did you graduate, and why did you choose CITI University?
— I graduated in Chinese Translation from the School of Humanities in 2023. Several factors informed my choice, particularly Chinese-language lecturer Sh. Munkhtsetseg and information from friends who were already studying at the university.
— You are now studying in China. What is your field?
— I am studying for a master’s degree in Art Design at East China Normal University in Shanghai.
— What achievements did you have as a student?
— I participated frequently in extracurricular arts and cultural competitions. In 2022, I won the national Chinese Bridge competition and the Best Performance award. In the subsequent final stage, I was selected among Asia’s top eight. I have received other awards both as a student and since graduating.
— What skills are most important for translating and interpreting Chinese?
— Alongside a strong command of the language, accurate pronunciation is essential. Even with good language knowledge, incorrect pronunciation and intonation can cause misunderstanding, particularly in Chinese.
— Which sources have been most useful in your translation work?
— Dictionaries of specialist terminology and idioms are especially important. Chinese speakers often use idiomatic expressions.
— What habits have helped you develop your translation skills?
— From the beginning, I watched many television programmes in Chinese. They can teach everyday expressions as well as specialist vocabulary. Watching material I enjoy has helped improve not only translation but also listening, speaking, reading and writing.
— Could you share a memorable experience from translation work?
— Every assignment introduces something new, brings me into a different professional setting and confronts me with things I do not yet know. Learning from these situations is what makes the work memorable and interesting.
— What advice would you give students facing difficulties in learning Chinese?
— When I began, I did not even know Chinese had four tones. Once I started studying it at university, I discovered how interesting it was and came to love it, as I still do. Language skills open opportunities. I encourage students to become thoroughly competent in their chosen profession.