This blog is part of a series on transcription. If you haven’t read the other blogs in this series, make sure to check out the summary page for a listing of all transcription blogs.
This is the question and answer of Sheila, a working MT. If you missed the introduction to this, please check this out. Sheila is a terrific MT, and when I was trying to decide who to interview, my thoughts naturally drifted to her. If I could choose who would transcribe my medical reports at a hospital, Sheila would be at the top of the list. If you’re wanting to become an MT, work to become one like her. You couldn’t find a better MT to emulate yourself after.
Here are Sheila’s thoughts on working as an MT:
How did you first hear about MT and what made you decide to become an MT?
I was researching on the Internet about at-home jobs and came across it. Then I actually found a few people at my church who were MTs. I met with both of them and decided to start my training based on the information I had gathered. It seemed as though it would really suit my personality.
What was the one thing you struggled with when you first started working?
The thing I struggled with most and still do is foreign dictators, but it is true that if you have them repeatedly they get easier. If it weren’t for my training with Career Step, I think it would have been even harder. I learned to “hear” accents better through the transcription part of my training.
Do you work full-time or part-time as a transcriptionist, and why?
I work part time as an independent contractor. I wanted this because it allows me to have a flexible schedule and be available to do things with the kids at school or take off if I need to. I liked not being tied to a specific schedule.
My next blog: Part Two!