I am a high school sophomore, and I plan to become a translator when I grow up. I plan to translate Italian, because I am already learning it on the side of my actual studies. Does anyone know what majors/degrees I’ll need for this?
The obvious major is Italian. Some schools also offer programs in translation (major, minor, or certificate).
It would be beneficial to learn other languages as well, so perhaps consider an additional major in Comparative Literature, Romance Languages, another foreign language of interest, or English, especially if you want to do literary translation. Alternatively, you might consider an additional major in another area of application, e.g., politics, West European Studies, international relations, economics/business (including international business), technical writing, journalism, religion, etc.
Also, see this link: http://www.altalang.com/beyond-words/2008/05/09/5-steps-to-becoming-a-translator/
I would say a major in Italian with maybe a Italian studies minor to learn more about the culture.