Abi Rodrigues Pompeu

Your time at Surrey

Choosing Surrey was based on the variety and diversity of modules the course offered, as I wanted to experience both translation and interpreting. Being closer to where I lived was also a key factor.

My course gave me the opportunity to delve into a wide range of subjects related to both translation and interpreting, providing an overview of the many paths I could take career wise.

I am fascinated with different cultures and ways of communicating. As a songwriter, I perceive words as a way of expressing emotions and feelings, but the understanding that I could apply my creative skills beyond the realms of art and into the world of translation and interpreting, has been my greatest discovery.

The staff

There are an infinite number of knowledgeable professionals out there, many of whom will know how to pass on the knowledge they know, fewer who will do it well, and even less so are the ones who can do it with passion and kindness. The Centre for Translation Studies (CTS) team is a rare group of professionals who are incredibly knowledgeable and brilliant at teaching and sharing their knowledge with their students. The facilities are excellent and very complementary to the learning experience. I’m truly grateful to have met such a great team of professionals and so many wonderful people during my time at Surrey.

Memories of Surrey

The beautiful campus (I love the greenery and the peaceful lake) and the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere are some of the many lovely memories of my time at Surrey. Bumping into my classmates and having a catch-up, laughing and sharing our worries but mostly being very supportive of one another, is one of my fondest memories.

Life after Surrey

I’m now working as a Talent Manager at Hogarth and have been truly enjoying my time there. Having envisioned myself working as a talent rather than a manager, I’m surprised at how much I have learned and how my soft skills have developed whilst working with the team. It is really special to think that I first learnt of my employer during my time at Surrey and it was during the Careers Fair that I first met the Hogarth team that I am now part of.

To all the students who are embarking on this career, I would advise to be open and inquisitive about new technologies and how they can benefit our work. I’ve realised that I had a quite limited vision of the endless and exciting possibilities that the world of translation and interpreting can offer. Being creative, resourceful, and unafraid of embracing technology can really set you apart and take you further in this career.