About Medical Interpreters @ Penn

Turning Interest into Action

Welcome to Medical Interpreters at Penn (MI@P), a dynamic and compassionate organization rooted in the heart of the University of Pennsylvania. We are not just a club; we are a community united by a shared vision of equal access to healthcare and a commitment to serving the vibrant city of Philadelphia and its surrounding communities.

Our Mission: Bridging Health and Culture

At MI@P, our mission is clear: we strive to bridge the gap between diverse cultures and the realm of healthcare. Our foundation rests on the belief that every individual deserves high-quality medical care, regardless of their language or cultural background. We wear the mantle of cultural advocates first and translators second, recognizing that understanding a patient's unique cultural context is essential to providing holistic and effective care.

Empowering Cultural Advocates

Our purpose is simple yet profound—to equip Penn students with the skills and tools necessary to become cultural advocates and interpreters at various clinics across Philadelphia. Through rigorous translator training and thoughtful placement, we ensure that our members are well-prepared to serve as conduits of communication, empathy, and understanding between healthcare providers and patients.

Our Triple-Fold Goals: Community, Service, and Growth:

Community: MI@P is more than an organization; it's a tightly-knit community of individuals who share a passion for healthcare equity. We offer a nurturing environment where like-minded students come together to support one another, exchange insights, and foster lasting connections.

Service: Guided by our unwavering commitment to service, MI@P orchestrates interpreter placements throughout Philadelphia. By championing accessibility for underserved populations, we strive to amplify voices that may otherwise remain unheard, making a tangible impact on the lives of those who need it most.

Growth: We believe in the power of continuous growth and improvement. Our members are not just interpreters but learners on an exciting journey. MI@P facilitates growth by providing a rich array of resources, including workshops, practice opportunities, materials, and information about interpreter certification. We're dedicated to nurturing our members' potential, ensuring they evolve into skilled and confident professionals.