February 2023 President's Corner - NCRID Conference

Hello everyone! As many of you know the NCRID conference is just around the corner (June 15-17, 2023). It has been a long time since we have been in-person for a conference. It is a perfect time to reconnect with each other!

Often, I hear interpreters ask, “What is the point of attending conference?” Others say “I already have all the CEUs I need so why spend money and time going to the conference.” I wanted to take a moment to mention the benefits for attending the NCRID conference.

Of course, when you attend a conference you will expand your knowledge, learn new skills, and take your interpreting to the next level. One thing unique with NCRID’s conference is the presenters. We try to give you presenters that you normally do not see by just attending local workshops. We search for presenters nationwide and try to pick topics that will truly help to improve the interpreting profession. We find presenters who are on the cutting edge and have done extensive research and study. Plus, NCRID always does its best to make the conference financially feasible. We search out sponsors and different ways to keep conference costs low. We work hard to negotiate low rates for hotel stays.

Now take a minute and consider other reasons for attending conference. Networking! Our profession tends to be more of an isolated profession. We do assignments, often alone, sometimes we are lucky and have a team. If we have been working long enough, we have a handful of people we can go to for advice. Depending on where we live, there might not be many interpreters.

When you attend a conference, you are no longer alone! Think about the people from different geographical areas, people who have different skill sets, and people with diverse cultural experiences. What better place to share valuable feedback, experiences, and resources. You are with a community who values you and your ideas. A community that truly understands what you go through daily.

Then of course attending conference is fun! You get to have meals and conversations with people from across the state, and possible other states. There are door prizes you can win. There are information booths where you can get freebies and learn about programs. Also, this year NCRID is partnering with Black ASL Expo. They will be having Juneteenth festivities including food, fun, vendors, cultural enrichment, and entertainment.

This is only a portion of what you gain from going to the NCRID conference. NCRID has many exciting options for workshops. Please keep an eye on the NCRID website and Facebook posts for conference information (northcarolinarid.org). I truly hope you consider attending this year!

-Tanya Miller

This was included in the February 2023 Newsletter