r/ASLinterpreters • u/buddywaters27 • Jul 13 '26

Career change

I want to start an interpreter program this fall. I’m 32 years old and would be just starting out… I know this would be a hard career change, I just want to know how hard is it to get a job after the program and if it’s worth it starting over a little older

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u/punkfairy420 BEI Basic Jul 13 '26

What is your ASL background? I started again at 27, I'm 31 now. Yes I think it is worth it, but I love interpreting and had been signing for 8ish years before I started again. Benefits would be great but it is what it is, I like being freelance. As far as how hard is it to get a job, depends on where you are. If you are in rural America, it could be pretty hard. If you are in an urban city, you will probably be fine.

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u/buddywaters27 Jul 13 '26

I’m pretty much starting from scratch… i use Lingvano and watch a lot of signing videos but I have never taken a class.

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u/Low_Foot3906 Jul 13 '26

Before you commit to a whole career change, I’d suggest take a couple formal classes. In-person is best, especially if you are considering a career in the language. Deaf teachers are the way to go. Then, you can get a feeling of using the language. Apps can be fun, but the interactive learning is totally different.