“I grew up in Bucharest, Romania and moved to USA with my parents after high school. After many years in management in the corporate world, I had the opportunity to pursue my passion, flamenco dance, and to diversify my skills doing research for my husband’s business and interpreting with the Foreign Language Academy. Learning new topics has been very stimulating to me so I am always looking for ways in which I can contribute while increasing my knowledge.
Romania provided a great educational environment since in school we studied, in addition to Romanian, French and English and in high school four years of Latin. Graduate school brought the opportunity to study and work in Italy, so I had a lot of exposure to languages and my family has always enjoyed traveling. I never realized that I can interpret for more then my family members until someone asked if I can help with an appointment. It was love at first sight. It is very satisfying to be able to help someone who needs assistance and make a positive impact on their lives. In addition, it also provides an opportunity to brush up on language skills and increase vocabulary in areas not always used daily”.
1). What is the most rewarding part about your job as an interpreter?
– The most rewarding thing about my job as an interpreter is the ability to facilitate communication and help individuals resolve issues as smooth as possible. I have met some very amazing people in our community and learned a lot about how a variety of systems work (legal, educational, etc).
2). What is the best advice you have ever been given?
– The best advice I have been given was to never give up, prepare in advance as much as possible and do the very best you can each and every day no matter the task.
3). If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
– I would live right here in Knoxville, TN in my current home. Don’t misunderstand. I love to travel and see new places. There are a million wonderful places in the world and great natural wonders, but I love Knoxville. Believe it or not, Knoxville has great natural surroundings for outdoor adventures, nice and clean neighborhoods, many festivals and ongoing entertainment to keep busy and enjoy. Traffic is manageable and my home is perfectly placed to enjoy a nice garden filled with cats and dogs. Add my family and friends to it and it is heaven, or close to it!
4). If you could have one super power, what would it be and why?
– Super power? I have one! I organize everything and everyone in my way. I bring chaos to order whether needed or not! If I had to have a super power I would find a way to build a flamenco dance academy in Knoxville to provide children with the opportunity to learn Spanish music and dance (my hobby). If I win the lottery, I would start a natural habitat shelter for abused cats and dogs.
Lucia, we love having you as an essential part of our FLA team! You bring so much to the community, our clients, and us. Thank you for all that you do! 