Nathalie Gettliffe
What are your main responsibilities or activities in your current position?
Teaching and research in Applied Linguistics at the graduate level at the University of Strasbourg's Faculty of Arts. I also train language teachers in a variety of languages (French, Spanish, English, ...)
How does your current work relate to your graduate degree?
My graduate degree at UBC was based on courses from two faculties (Arts and Education) and included a study abroad program (French university). This allowed me to apply to positions in Canada, the US and Europe. My committee was also international which has helped me with an international career.
What do you like and what do you find challenging about your current position?
I am involved in many international and local projects on developing language programs for migrants and school students. It is always exciting and challenging to read research to try to figure out how to apply it in the field.
What motivated you to pursue graduate work at UBC?
The international reputation of the University and the opportunities to work in French and English.
What did you enjoy the most about your time as a graduate student at UBC?
The variety of courses, the TA opportunity, international exposure, the European program of studies.
What key things did you do, or what attitudes or approaches did you have, that contributed to your success?
International, interdisciplinary and professional opprotunities. International committee.
What is your best piece of advice for current graduate students preparing for their future careers?
They need to cherish this time and take hold of every opportunity for practicum, interdisciplinary and international studies.
Did you have any breaks in your education?
I had two breaks during my Ph.D. as I had two children. This lengthened the writing of my Ph.D. thesis.
How did you find out about/obtain your current position?
I applied to the French national competition in the winter and I got 10 proposals in the spring.
What challenges did you face in your graduate degree, or in launching your career?
I had to understand the French system of teaching and researching. This needed a cultural adjustment.
How are jobs normally posted and filled in your organization or industry?
There is a national competition every winter (around January-February) and the auditions take place in the Spring.