Polyglot second language specialist wins translation prize at McGill

A true polyglot, Marie Lenkiewicz, was awarded the McGill Associates Prize in Translation (English to French) at the 2007 Spring Convocation. This prize is awarded annually to the student with the best academic record over the entire Certificate in Translation Program.

Ms. Lenkiewicz is passionate about language and culture, and this passion has been a driving force throughout her academic career. Competent in English, French, Spanish and Russian, Ms. Lenkiewicz’s love affair with translation dates back to her first course in Spanish translation when she was an undergraduate student at Concordia University, where she majored in Spanish with a minor in Russian. Subsequently, she went on to earn another degree in second language teaching at the Université du Québec à Montréal and an MA in Spanish at McGill.

Her work experience allowed her to develop a greater familiarity with the practical side of language usage in a variety of positions with both private sector firms and professional organizations such as the Ordre des infirmiers et infirmières du Québec and the Ordre des agronomes du Québec. There she learned the real needs of organizations in translation, terminology and quality control. This combination of interests and experience propelled her into her continuing studies in translation, where she gave free rein to her new-found interests in writing, translation and revision, areas where she now draws upon her truly vast skill set.

“Ms. Lenkiewicz’s love of language and culture, her field experience and her commitment to excellence will prove to be a winning combination in Canada’s burgeoning language industry,” noted Translation Studies Director James Archibald.

As a translation student, Ms. Lenkiewicz came to understand the benefits of belonging to the Quebec professional system. Consequently, she joined the Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec as a student member to prepare herself for a career as a certified translator.

For further information:
kathy.peacock [at] mcgill.ca (Mrs. Katherine Peacock)
Tel.: 514-398-1484