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What is an interpreter?

An interpreter is a person who is fluent in two or more languages and can render a message from one language to another, conveying the meaning and intent of the speaker. English-American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters listen to a spoken English message and give the same message in ASL, a visual spatial language, or watch an ASL message and deliver the same message in spoken English.

How prepared will I be when I graduate?

The ability to learn language and the interpreting process varies from individual to individual. Because of our high standards and rigorous exit examination our graduates have, in the past few years, scored above entry level on state screens.

Learning to use another language and to interpret in that language is life long. Our program also offers workshops and other professional development opportunities for working interpreters.

When I graduate will I find employment?

Like any profession, the job market for interpreters fluctuates. Interpreters find that they have more work during certain times of the year and there is less call for interpreters during the summer. Currently in the United States there is a shortage of interpreters. The interpreters working in our immediate area are by and large graduates of our program. In addition to working in the Carbondale area and around the state of Illinois, our graduates have moved to other parts of the country. We currently have graduates working in Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Louisiana, Tennesee, Missouri, Indiana, Ohio, Washington D. C., Florida, and other states. Employment opportunities abound if you are willing to look for them.

Contact Us

Interpreter Preparation Program
John A. Logan College
700 Logan College Road
Carterville, Illinois 62918

If you have comments or questions, our e-mail address is: paulawillig@jalc.edu, shericook@jalc.edu or hmenkis@mac.com TTY or Videophone -- 618-985-8870, or 618-985-6018, General TTY Number (Deaf and Hard of Hearing Access) -- (618) 985-2752

Telephone:
(618) 985-3741 -- Carterville and Williamson County (operator)
(618) 985-2828 -- Williamson County Direct Extension Access
(618) 549-7335 -- Carbondale and Jackson County (operator)
(618) 457-7676 -- Jackson County Direct Extension Access
(618) 542-8612 -- Du Quoin
(618) 937-3438 -- West Frankfort
1-800-851-4720 -- Crab Orchard, Gorham, and Trico areas

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