Title of job
Financial translator (French to English)

Languages studied for A level
French, Welsh, English

Languages studied at university
French, Spanish

University
University of Wales Aberystwyth

Best thing about the course
As I studied single honours French in my final year, I was able to take nearly every module offered in the department which meant I had the opportunity to study everything from medieval French to Surrealism. This gave me a more rounded view of French culture in general, which I think is very important for someone living abroad.

Where did you spend your year out?
Northern France as an Assistante d'anglais

Do you think that the fact that you studied languages helped you to obtain this post?
Most definitely.

Could you tell us more about the nature of the job outlining main tasks and responsibilities?
I work in the Equities Research department of a French stockbroker in Paris where I translate analysts' research notes from French into English.

Do you use your languages frequently? If so, in which situations?
On a daily basis - both in the office and at home with my French boyfriend.

What other jobs have you done since leaving university?
I came straight to Paris after graduating. My first job was a two month sales position selling IT Hardware. I then worked for four months as a project manager at a translation agency. I started working at Exane as an Editorial Secretary at the beginning of 2001 and four years later was promoted to my current position.

What is the best thing about learning another language in your opinion?
The ability to visit or live in a foreign country and be able to communicate easily with the natives. Speaking the language also gives you a completely different perspective on the country's culture.

What would you say to those who are reluctant to carry on with their languages?
With the business world becoming more international, speaking a foreign language is a huge advantage when applying for jobs with large companies. In France for example, English mother tongue staff are paid more than French people who do not speak English. Even though English is more widespread worldwide today, there will always be a demand for foreign languages in the workplace in my opinion.