Student work translates to award success

Sandeep, 26, is from Kerala, India and is studying for his third postgraduate degree in International Human Rights Law.

Sandeep was nominated by Multilingua, a translation company based in Exeter. He carried out assignments with local government, health and social services clients; offering translation services into Malayalam but also invaluable cultural insight. 

Sandeep explains: “When undertaking translating work I started to realise that my knowledge of cultural practice would also be relevant. For example, I briefed social workers about normal family practice among Indian communities when a baby is born. I am so pleased to get this award and it will be a great record of the work I have done here.”

Leanne Fennell, University of Exeter Career Zone manager said: “We are so proud of Sandeep for beating 440 other students to win this award. He received exceptional feedback from companies hiring his services and also made a real difference to individual lives. He went above and beyond and is a great example of the success of employing international students in the local community.”

Anil Lee, Project Manager, Multilungua, said: “Interpreting is not just about speaking another language, which seems to be the general misunderstanding. It involves skills like accuracy, impartiality and confidentiality, cultural expertise, and extensive general knowledge. It is a profession that requires updating one’s skills all the time. A service provider understands the difference when they use a true professional like Sandeep.”

Leanne Fennell also received an honour from NASES, being presented with a Lifetime Membership Award for outstanding commitment – only six other professionals have previously won this award. 

The University of Exeter’s Employability and Graduate Development Service has over 40 staff working to help develop students for their career choices. Despite the tough economic times, we have improved our employment record year-on-year: more than seven out of 10 University of Exeter students get a graduate level job or progress to postgraduate education within six months of graduation.