Jennifer Huertas
Born in Guatemala and raised in a broken home, Jennifer immigrated tot he United States at age 16 after leaving an abusive environment. Learning English while navigating a new culture she faced significant academic and social challenges. She became a teenage mother during high school yet persevered and graduated. After five years as a single mother, she found the love of her life who embraced her child as his own. Together they built a family and welcomed a second child. Today, Jennifer is a proud grandmother of two girls-- and of all the titles she has held, "Grandma" is her absolute favorite.
• TOEFL IBT
• Real Life Church
• River of Life Church
• Riverwalk Church
• Calvary Chapel
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to never giving up, always being willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. I take the time to listen to my clients and provide them with the best experience possible.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Learning is never ending journey, learn every time you get the chance. Learn from your mistakes and keep going.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
When it comes to caregiving, you need to be able to put yourself in your client's shoes. Be compassionate to their unique situation and simply put: care.
Interpreting is the ability to connect two or more people whom would otherwise not be able to communicate. We don't translate word for word, but rather for meaning.
And in hospitality, think of your experiences as a guest: what are the nonnegotiable for you? Cleanliness is definitely one for me. What are the little details that have stuck in your mind at your lodging on your last vacation? Did they leave a nice hand written note or fresh flowers on a table? Implement those small details.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the interpreting field has been the introduction of AI. Although AI is a great tool, it has the potential of putting me out of a job, even if it is still unable to get everything just right.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
One of the most important assets in the work place is integrity; which by definition is is the quality of being honest, having strong moral principles, and maintaining consistency between actions, words, and values. It is vital to have a healthy work/life balance. No job will ever be worth my mental health or peace. In life I go by the "Do as unto the Lord" (Colossians 3:23) is a principle urging individuals to work heartily and with integrity in all tasks, viewing them as service to God rather than mere human authorities
Expert Insights
Locations
Lango, previously Translation and Interpretation Network
Boca Raton, FL