INALCO MA Student Continues Studies at CITS Remotely

Today we would like to introduce Valerie Hocquemiller, our exchange MA student from Besançon, the city bordering Switzerland. Valerie likes history books and cooking. She came to Astrakhan to study simultaneous interpreting in our School. Unfortunately, Valerie had to return home because of the pandemic, but she continues studying interpreting remotely.

Valerie, why did you decide to become an interpreter?

I decided to become an interpreter because I like the paradox of interpreter being both necessary and invisible at the same time.

What are your working languages?

French is my A language, Russian is B and English is C.

How did you know Russian was the language you wanted to work with?

I chose Russian because I’m interested in Russian history.

How did you get to CITS?

I study at INALCO (National Institute for Oriental Languages and Civilizations in Paris), in my first year of MA program. I came to Astrakhan for one term as an exchange student. I had to come back to France due to coronavirus situation, but I keep studying remotely.

Is it difficult to study remotely?

Well, it’s strange because we have many simultaneous interpreting classes. We record our performances and send them to the trainers. We interpret simultaneously via Skype which is quite inconvenient but I like staying home and study independently. I think that it’s also useful for those wanting to freelance. Current situation is a good way to find out if you are comfortable with this way of living or not.

What’s your favourite class?

I really enjoy simultaneous interpreting.

Did you have time to make friends with your fellow students? Did they help you to settle in Astrakhan?

Yes and yes! They explained everything about the classes, schedule, tasks, etc. on the first day. They were ready to give me advice or help me around the city, all I had to do was ask.

What was your first impression about the city and the University?

The city seemed small…Although, there were many good people, I’d noticed that on the first day! I was so surprised! And as soon as I entered the University building, it turned out to be high-tech and cool.