June 10, 2025
What does it take to turn language skills into a life-changing career? For one recent graduate of the Academy of Interpretation (AOI), it started with a bold decision: to invest in herself and her future by becoming a trained interpreter.
We recently sat down with Laritza Pantoja to learn more about her experience in our Professional Medical Interpreter Course. What she shared was a deeply personal, inspiring story of growth, confidence, and purpose. For anyone who’s bilingual and wondering whether interpreting might be the right path, her words offer a powerful reminder: it’s never too late to pursue a career with meaning.
“I was already bilingual,” Laritza told us, “but I didn’t know how to turn that into a career. I kept seeing people around me struggle to communicate in medical settings, and I wanted to help, but I knew I needed to be properly trained first.” After researching different programs, she chose the Academy of Interpretation for one simple reason: “I wanted quality. I wanted to learn from professionals, not just memorize terminology. And the AOI delivered that.” From the very first class, she felt welcomed, supported, and seen.
“The instructors at AOI really care. They made it clear that we weren’t just learning a skill. We were becoming part of something bigger.”
Like many of our students, Laritza juggled full-time work and family responsibilities while completing her training. “I won’t lie. It was challenging,” she admitted. “But the course was structured in a way that made it possible. The schedule worked for me. The live online classes were interactive, and I always felt supported, even when life got busy.” She appreciated how the AOI team didn’t just teach, they coached. “They were always checking in, offering help, encouraging us. They gave me confidence in myself.”
She wasn’t on this journey alone. In fact, one of the most meaningful parts of the course for her was the sense of community. “I met other bilinguals just like me. People who wanted to use their voices to help others. We shared stories, helped each other study, and lifted each other up. That made all the difference.” AOI’s learning environment encourages students to build each other up, knowing that collaboration is a key skill in interpretation work. “This wasn’t just about passing a test. It was about growing together.” When asked what surprised her most about the course, she paused and smiled. “Honestly? I didn’t realize how powerful being an interpreter really is. It’s not just repeating words, you're a lifeline for someone. You help them feel safe, heard, and respected.” She said she now looks at hospitals, clinics, and even schools differently. “Everywhere I go, I notice the gaps in communication and now, I know I can be the bridge."
If you’re bilingual and wondering whether interpretation is right for you, she has one message: go for it. “Don’t doubt yourself. I did for a long time. I kept thinking, ‘Who am I to do this?’ But now I realize, I’m exactly the kind of person who should be doing this. And so are you.” She emphasized that the world needs more qualified, compassionate interpreters. “People need to be understood. They need advocates. If you can speak more than one language, you already have the foundation. AOI gives you the tools to build something real.”
“This course changed my life. I gained knowledge, confidence, and a career path I’m proud of. I now walk into every assignment knowing I have the tools to do it right.”
The Academy of Interpretation is proud to support bilingual individuals from all walks of life as they take their first steps into professional interpretation. Whether your goal is to work in medical, legal, or community settings, we offer:
If you’ve ever imagined using your language skills to create a more equitable world, start here. Join our growing network of trained interpreters who are changing lives every day.
Are you a recent AOI student and want to be featured in our Student Spotlight Series? Schedule a time to meet with our marketing team!
