“Form+Code-Hello” describes software  as a “tool for the mind”, allowing people to access and process extensive amounts of information, and Google Translate is a perfect example of this idea. Though I have been using google translate throughout most of my life, whether it be to look up how to say “turtle” in different languages for fun or help me with assignments for Spanish class, I have only realized its impact more recently.

In addition to helping me study for Korean school vocabulary quizzes, Google Translate offered me a way to communicate with my loved ones more effectively. I reconnected with my great aunt who only knows Korean. I haven’t been able to practice Korean as much, so I have forgotten quite a lot. I can almost fully understand the language, but I struggle with communicating exactly what I would like to say. However, with the help of Google Translate, I was able to overcome our language barrier and hold a conversation long enough to get caught up on each other’s lives. I am grateful that such a program exists, allowing me to connect with a loved one despite the difference in language. It is revolutionary how software is capable of breaking down language barriers, allowing more individuals to access information, including the ability to connect with others.

Joanna Kim