In an effort to motivate language students and to promote real engagement, a long-running project has taken root at Newcastle University. For over 12 years, the Real Translation Project (RTP), an extracurricular initiative in the School of Modern Languages, has been offering opportunities to language students to use their linguistic skills to support community and charity organisations. Through participating in the project, the students develop professional as well as translation skills. This paper examines how the project facilitates the transition of students to post-graduation life -- equipping them with work skills and increasing their awareness of the specific skills required in translation whilst linking them with external organisations and giving them opportunities to contribute to society. Drawing on empirical data from participants, this paper analyses the immediate and long-term outcomes derived from working on meaningful, authentic projects, using problem-based learning and a collaborative approach. [For the complete volume, "Innovative Language Teaching and Learning at University: Facilitating Transition from and to Higher Education," see ED619814.]