Medical Interpreter Standout Student

Riana Andrade

Riana Andrade was working as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in a hospital when the unexpected happened.  A doctor on staff quickly approached her, asking for her help.  A patient was in great pain but could not communicate what was wrong because she did not speak English.  To that point, the patient and hospital staff had waited two hours for an interpreter to arrive.  Riana promptly helped translate for the patient who then received the treatment needed.  This situation resonated with Riana.  She realized she possessed the ability to help hospital patients in a whole new way.

Three years prior, a co-worker told Riana about the Medical Interpreter Certificate program at Massasoit Community College.  Medical interpreting was something she had given thought to, but until her experience helping translate for the patient in the hospital, it had always been something to consider in the future.  Riana enrolled in the Medical Interpreter Certificate program in fall 2018 and excelled as a student.  She gives much of the credit for her success to instructor, Max Grecchi, who always made sure she had the tools and knowledge to succeed.

Before Riana had received her certificate for completing the Medical Interpreter Certificate program, she had a job offer on the table.  While she continues to work full-time as a CNA, Riana also works as a per diem medical interpreter for Baystate Interpreters.  Her long-term goal is to become a midwife.  Having recently moved out of state, Riana enrolled in the nursing program at Community College of Rhode Island.  She begins classes in fall 2019.  Regardless of where her career takes her, Riana is certain of one thing; she will always work as a medical interpreter – that work is too important for her to pass up.