Provider Spotlight: Marilyn Corlett

Deaf Services Unlimited is made up of a nationwide network of Sign Language Interpreters and CART Writers. We truly wouldn’t be able to make conversations happen without our amazing providers. As experienced experts in their field, they go above and beyond to provide communication access. One of these accessibility champions is Marilyn Corlett. Read more below as Marilyn shares about her interpreting experience and shares advice for aspiring interpreters! 

1. What inspired you to become an interpreter, and how did you start in this field? 

When people ask me how long I’ve been an ASL Interpreter, my response is usually, “nearly 100 years”!! Just to give you an indication of how seasoned I am, I obtained my first certification in 1977!! I have yet to arrive and my ongoing goal is to become better and better at my profession. 

I was blessed with Deaf parents, the only thing they couldn’t do was hear! My Mom and Dad put God first.  As a result their lives reflected their love for each other, their 5 children and the deaf community.  Our home was a home where neighborhood kids and friends loved to come.  People had time in those days,  Language was never a barrier.  Neighbors were willing to take the time to get acquainted and Mom would come home with pages of written communication that took place in their visits.  My parents’ deafness did not prevent them from fully participating in our lives. I still have correspondence from parent/teacher conferences that my Mom attended. I remember too as a little girl pointing out the words in the hymnal so my Mom could follow along when the service wasn’t interpreted.   Our parents gave us language for which I am eternally grateful.  My oldest brother was quoted, having said, “I started learning sign in the crib when I asked for my bottle!” Oftentimes my oldest brother would interpret in certain situations and I wanted to grow up to be like him.  Relying on family members to interpret is highly discouraged and rightfully so.  However, I grew up in a time where interpreters were scarce.  Our parents were wise and extremely independent.  We never felt burdened on those rare occasions that we interpreted for them.  In truth, I believe it gave me an additional insight to our profession. 

Previous generations of my hearing relatives were committed to the Deaf community and more specifically to the education of Deaf children. All this left me with a rich legacy and encouragement to pursue my career as an interpreter. Our family passed on a pride and love for their language and for deaf people that I cherish. I must admit though that my Dad asked where his commission was! If not for him and his investment in me, I would have never pursued this field. I owe my parents big time! 

In addition to that I had a deaf sister in-law who authored sign language materials and taught interpreter training. Her investment in mentoring me for 3 years was invaluable.   

2. Can you share one of your most memorable interpreting experiences? 

I am grateful to the Deaf community for the opportunity to identify with them. I’m thankful for their patience and willingness to engage and help me develop as an interpreter. More importantly, I’ve had the opportunity to establish relationships with wonderful people who have been a major influence in my life.   I’m grateful for Deaf and hearing interpreters who have been amazing role models and encouraged me in my work. Providing a service, connecting voices and hands and seeing communication take place is a privilege.   

3. What do you find most rewarding about interpreting, and what keeps you passionate about it? 

Every day is a new day. It’s a pleasure, providing an accommodation for our hearing consumers who don’t know sign language. Ultimately, every assignment presents a new challenge which provides the satisfaction of assessing and meeting the communication needs of our consumers.   

4. How do you approach continuing education and staying up-to-date in the interpreting industry? 

We have opportunities like never before to pursue workshops and professional development. Online learning is convenient and affordable. 

5. What do you enjoy most about working with DSU? 

DSU has great staff who have our backs in every situation. What a privilege to work with Deaf individuals and skilled interpreters from all over the country on a daily basis. 

It doesn’t get any better than this!

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