I began my translation journey at Macquarie University, where both mentors and challenges profoundly shaped my path. One mentor who had a significant impact on me was Prof. Haidee Kotze. Known for her rigorous marking, she set high standards, but her support was readily available if you sought it. This blend of strictness and guidance taught me the value of persistence and shaped my character. Her deep dedication to translation studies was almost tangible, and it became one of the key reasons I later pursued a PhD. Macquarie offered a rich environment filled with inspiring individuals and opportunities for growth, which remains central to my professional development.
A memorable moment was during a practice session when I was underprepared but managed to keep my composure and improvise. Dr. Jing Fang, with her signature humor, remarked, “If I didn’t know English, I’d think you were excellent!” That playful comment stuck with me, serving as a reminder of the importance of humor and balance, especially in high-pressure situations. We aren’t born perfect, and while training is essential, so is the ability to recognize our limits and manage stress. Sometimes, stepping back and not taking ourselves too seriously is key to making progress.
The transition from training to professional practice has been one of the most challenging phases of my career. Without the structured pressures of academia, I suddenly had the freedom to explore, but with that came the challenge of maintaining my own discipline. A certification or license isn’t the final achievement—it’s the starting point of a new journey. NAATI’s guidelines for continuing professional development have been invaluable, but the inner drive—the “kindling” that keeps the fire going—must come from within. It’s not a burden but a daily commitment, as my colleague Savi once said, like walking a dog—a routine that keeps you grounded.
For me, trust is built through consistency, not just in how we are perceived by others but in staying true to ourselves, even when facing challenges. Emotional setbacks and tough days are inevitable, but the real test lies in persevering through them. We are always just one step away from our next mistake, but that’s part of the learning process. My PhD research currently focuses on AI agency, exploring it beyond the linguistic lens, enriched by mentorship from USQ, Macquarie, and NAATI. Dr. Bo Song, Brad, and Anita have provided much-needed encouragement and motivation throughout this journey. I’ve come to realize that, like children, growth is not automatic. Both internal and external scaffolding are crucial at certain stages.
Both Macquarie and NAATI have been pivotal in igniting that inner spark for me. Even setbacks have not weakened my passion; they have only strengthened it. As one of my mentors at USQ, Prof. Ji Zhang, advised: “Keep trying.” Stay the course, and we will reach our goals, though it takes consistent effort and determination.
Guofeng is a Certified Translator Chinese <> English
