Postigo Translates Documents for Parks & Recreation Department

Dr. María Postigo, holding documents she translated from English into Spanish to be shared at the Latino Night in Whitehall, Ohio.

Dr. María Postigo, Lecturer of Translation-Spanish in the Modern Languages Department, translated several documents for the Whitehall, Ohio, Parks & Recreation Department from English into Spanish.

The materials were distributed to the public during the Latino Night in Whitehall.

The documents included Whitehall’s Fall 2018 Flyer, the 2019 Parks Shelter Rental Agreement, the Parks & Recreation Department Overview, and the Splashpad Registration and Rules.

One of the challenges was condensing the fliers’ text into Spanish – which can be one third longer than English – so that it fit into the original format, while also conveying the same information. There were also a few terms that were hard to translate, such as “splashpad” and “ragball.” Nonetheless, Postigo, who is a professional translator and interpreter, acknowledges that “every text is unique and challenging, but being able to facilitate communication and bringing communities together is incredibly rewarding.”

Translation and interpreting is one of the fastest growing occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. With this growth in mind, the Modern Languages Department offers three translation courses and is working on the creation of a translation program. Among other skills, students will be able to learn how to use the latest software for professional translators and project managers.

The Modern Languages Department has also created a Translation Club, where Postigo serves as the adviser. The club organizes talks and workshops about the translation and interpreting professions. In addition, its members have provided interpreting services to three delegations of professors from other countries (Argentina, Colombia and Ecuador) visiting Ohio University. This has been a great opportunity for students, who are able to serve the university on its mission of fostering strong international relations while getting compensated for their efforts.