In discussing success as a language specialist, the author looks at multilingualism, natural translation, language studies, world knowledge, university programmes, personality and job satisfaction. Entering the profession – be it as a translator or as an interpreter – may be carefully planned or fortuitous. This applies to multilingualism as well as learning the processes and skills that set translation and interpretation apart from merely being fluent in two or more languages. Furthermore, translating and interpreting comprise various sub-groups of activities calling for different qualities, knowledge, and skills.