Living Abroad, Combining Studies with Family Life, and Returning to University After 20 Years: Kristīne Kovale's Story

January 10, 2023

"Studying and developing means living!" says Kristīne Kovale, who joined the Ventspils University of Applied Sciences this fall to return to higher education after a twenty-year break. The excellent reputation of the translation study program, as well as a small coincidence, led Kristīne to the master's study program "Translation of Applied Texts." Kristīne tells how she unexpectedly began to study translation.


Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a mother of two (soon to be three) children with impressive work experience in real estate. Twenty years ago, I obtained a Level 2 higher education degree in law, and since then I have been trying to improve myself every now and then. We have been living in Spain for five years now, and before our regular vacation in Latvia, I saw an advertisement on Facebook about a master's program at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences.


How did you decide that this program was right for you?

I read the conditions and decided to write to the university immediately. Within a few days, the study agreement was signed. I couldn't believe that I would be studying again! I was thrilled, and when I returned to Spain, I started my studies in the master's program "Translation of Applied Texts" at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences on September 2. I must say that I wasn't consciously looking for any study opportunities, it just happened that way – an advertisement on social media, the university's reputation in the translation industry, and the opportunity to study remotely. I couldn't pass up such an opportunity!


How is it to return to studies? What do you like most?

Since I hadn't studied at university for almost twenty years, I felt very excited and threw myself into everything the university and lecturers had to offer with great enthusiasm. I willingly volunteered to become the course representative, which I think I'm good at. I really like the respectful attitude of the lecturers and their diverse experience in translation. Initially, we received an impressive amount of information, but now we have learned to "sort" it. Modern technologies, available CAT tools, dictionaries, glossaries, and other IT options are amazing, and at the same time, I can no longer imagine translation work without them. Thank you to our wonderful teachers!


We are also lucky to have classmates who support and help each other whenever necessary. It feels like we have known each other for a long time.


Do you think it is possible to combine studies with work?

By spending less time sleeping, it is possible to combine studies with work. :))) Studies are usually associated with young people who have just obtained a bachelor's degree and do not yet have a family, but those who are "experienced in life" like me, who also must take care of their family, have to choose their priorities (at least for the duration of their studies). Although I sometimes face challenges, I do not regret a single moment I spend studying.


The first semester is almost over. What have been your biggest gains so far?

I have gained invaluable information about the IT tools available in the translation industry, and in this short time I have already gained translation experience by translating various texts. Each text to be translated requires in-depth knowledge of the relevant field, so I have learned many interesting facts about various world events.


Is there anything you have decided to achieve in 2023?

I have decided not to give up and to continue my studies.

What would you say to those who are just planning to start studying at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences?

Studying and developing means living. Always move forward! Don't hesitate — take risks, accept every challenge and opportunity that life offers us! When else, if not now?! Never be lazy!

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