Translating community
For as long as she can remember, Neftali has interpreted for her family at appointments, school conferences and grocery stores. She recognized early on that she had a heart for providing this essential service as well as the skills to pursue a translation + interpretation degree and certification. Coupling this focus with a major in public relations, Neftali interned in both fields at Promise Community Health Center—stepping into a full-time role after graduation to create marketing materials that resonate with Spanish-speaking clientele. Thanks to hands-on, professional experience at Northwestern, she was ready.What are some of your job’s responsibilities?
I help manage bilingual communication across all our channels to make sure we are reaching our patients and community in both English and Spanish. Beyond written translations for social media content, patient resources and announcements, I help bridge communication gaps during community events, balancing real-time interpretation with public relations strategy so everyone feels included and connected.
What are the most satisfying aspects of your career?
Without a doubt, it is seeing how language access builds real trust in healthcare. Knowing that a clear translation helps a Spanish-speaking family navigate their healthcare or feel truly cared for at our facility is deeply rewarding. I also love blending my PR background with translation, crafting campaigns where we are not just converting words line-by-line but sharing messages in a way that resonates with our community.
Why did you choose to attend NWC?
I liked NWC’s close-knit community and the flexibility of its programs. NWC is one of the very few schools that offers a translation + interpretation major, and the approach felt hands-on, personal and purpose-driven rather than just textbook theory. Plus, I played soccer and loved the team culture and the chance to keep playing at the collegiate level.
How did NWC prepare you for what you’re doing now?
Northwestern taught me how to be versatile. My translation classes gave me a sharp eye for cultural context and nuance—things I rely on every day when writing bilingual content for the public. Paired with PR, I learned how to think strategically about our audience and message. Best of all, I was not just practicing in a classroom. Through internships and community events, I got to work with real clients before I even had my diploma in hand.
What are the strengths of NWC’s translation + interpretation major?
Beyond the deep focus on cultural context, the biggest strength is how collaborative it is. We learned so much from Professor Koene, and we got to learn from each other. You interpret in the room together, hear how your classmates tackle tricky phrases, and realize how differently people process language. Comparing notes helps you build richer translations and discover great resources, all while getting tons of hands-on practice.
What did you come to value about your NWC experience?
I came to value the whole NWC ecosystem, including the lifelong friendships, the alumni network and the faculty who genuinely care about you thriving long after graduation. It is a place that broadens how you view the world and gives you a supportive foundation to grow from.
What are some of your favorite memories from your time at Northwestern?
I loved serving as La Mosaic president and helping organize our annual Cultural Fair. It was so special helping students of color feel welcomed and at home on campus. Between soccer, campus events and endless study sessions with friends, I walked away with memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.