MAGNOLIA, Ark. — People in the community who need assistance with translations can now take advantage of Community Learning Translation Services offered by foreign language student volunteers at Southern Arkansas University.
The English and Foreign Language department at SAU recognizes how much both the institution and the students will benefit from a free translation service of English, Chinese, Spanish and French. The services will be offered at varying times in the Community Service Area of the Donald W. Reynolds Center.
Dr. Elba Birmingham-Pokorny, a Spanish professor at SAU, feels this service will not only fulfill an urgent need that exists within the community but also will be of great value to our students.
“It will give them a perfect opportunity to put into practice the knowledge they acquired in the classroom and will teach them the life-long importance of giving to the community.”
Laquita Houston, who has volunteered to help translate Spanish documents said she sees the program as a win-win for all participants.
“The translation services that are going to be provided by the foreign language program are a great opportunity not only for the community, but for students as well. It is a great experience for me to fully use the language and gain experience in my chosen field of study.”
The translation services program will operate at various times on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays. On Monday, the center will be open from noon to 6 p.m., on Wednesdays the center will be open from 2 to 7: 30 p.m. and on Fridays, the center will be open from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Students who have volunteered to help include Holly Ball, Gitanjali Shrestra, Albert Hanna, Danielle Dancy, Laquita Houston, Michael Story, Candace Gonzalez and Marcelle Elenga.
The translation services the English and Foreign Language department will be providing to the community will help those students who are taking Spanish-English Translation 1, Spanish-English Translation II. Student in Oral Interpretation I and II pass the exam to gain certification as translators.
To inquire more about the translation program contact Birmingham-Pokorny at 870-235-4206 or elpokorny@saumag.edu.
