How Happy are Translators with their Studies?

Abstract:

Although the translation industry is thriving with steady growth and a value of several billion Euros, many translators in Europe seem to hardly be able to make a living of their profession. In many countries, the average income of a freelance translator would actually be below the poverty threshold.

The gap between market requirements and the actual skills of translators seems to be quite obvious. Many complain of not having the necessary technical knowledge and of lacking business skills. What conclusions can be drawn on the gaps between needed and actual skill set among translators analyzing how happy they are with the subjects they have studied at university?

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