EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS I gained an 'A' level in German at school and took a year out to do work experience in Germany before continuing to study the language for a further 2 years at York College. I went on to work in Frankfurt at Dresdner Bank Asset Management, where I loved working with, and becoming immersed in, the language. As my love of German has never wained, I decided in my 40s to go back to studying and went on to achieve Distinction in Diploma of German and Related Studies and finally a high 2:1 in BA in Language and Related Studies.

I have been running my own business for the last 12 years and understand the importance of client satisfaction. I am a conscientious and reliable worker and am eager to prove to potential clients my ability in the use of the German language, being open to translation work in all fields of expertise. In addition, I feel I have a very good command of the English language and am able to distinguish between word-for-word translation and applying terminology that conveys the correct meaning and sentiment of the source expression.

ON A PERSONAL NOTE ... I am a 52 year old mother of two. Although they are now grown up, the children and I have enjoyed years of campervan trips to a.o. Europe, including a trip to the South of Germany; it was wonderful being able to speak on a daily basis with the locals. I received many compliments on my ability to converse easily, but the overall reaction was one of surprise. I guess that is down to the fact that most people whose mother tongue is English expect everyone to be able to speak it, and are making little or no attempt to learn other languages.

I think it is so important to make the effort, and I am glad that both my children enjoyed learning languages at school and I hope that they continue to strengthen their abilities to communicate and interact with people from other countries. This will also give them a wider and more enjoyable understanding and appreciation of different cultures.

I am very approachable and look forward to being considered for any work you may have. Thank you for taking the time to read this little bit about me!

Rachel Goodwin