Paul, a native of Cap-Haïtien, in Haiti, has just graduated from the MA in Bilingualism Studies (research paper option) program at the Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute (OLBI). He also holds a joint honours bachelor's in public administration and political science from uOttawa.
The Bilingualism Studies student experience
Paul found his program extremely rewarding. It allowed him to explore various aspects of bilingualism — in families, schools, workplaces and minority language communities. He enjoyed the class discussions on multilingual work environments and language policy, as they mirrored his research interests. He also liked the hands-on aspect of the program, which allowed him to see how theoretical knowledge could be put into practice.
For Paul, the master’s prepares students well for multilingual, multicultural settings. Its strength lies in its small number of students and caring approach. Professors take the time to get to know students’ interests, goals and areas of research, to point them to relevant opportunities that suit their paths. During his studies, Paul had the chance to be a research assistant for Professors Beverly Baker and Catherine Levasseur.
Not one but two scholarships!
Paul received the Harshman Scholarship in Language Sciences, for students who demonstrate good academic standing, financial need and social engagement. His civic and social involvement was focused on promoting the Francophonie, supporting students and engaging with the community. He also received OLBI’s Graduate Studies Committee grant. As well, he worked as an elementary school language assistant with the Conseil des Ecoles Publiques de l’est de l'Ontario and as a community adviser in university residence.
A professor’s invaluable support
All professors left their mark on Paul through their accessibility, expertise and willingness to support students. He quickly became close to them, which made his experience more personal and rewarding.
Levasseur, his research paper supervisor, left a particular impression with her invaluable support during a very difficult period, after the death of Paul’s younger brother. She was highly empathetic and understanding, helping him contact the Faculty of Arts to get the support he needed and to defer a term.
Levasseur also gave him a chance to participate in her research, which led to him co-writing a scholarly article on bilingualism in the workplace for young Francophones educated in French in Canada.
“I greatly admire the persistence, resilience and determination Frandley showed throughout his master’s. I’m happy to have been able to support him in preparing his paper and thus, getting to know him better. He’s a brilliant student, dynamic and humorous, from whom I learned a lot. He can be very proud of his accomplishments,” says Levasseur.
Paul chose to focus his paper on the implementation of the Official Languages Act in the federal public service and its practical impact on Francophones’ day-to-day work reality.
His proudest moment was when he received the comments from his research paper supervisor and from his second reader, Professor Monica Jezak. They told him that his paper was of high quality and could contribute to research on language policy and the Official Languages Act. It then occurred to him that his work could have a real impact in the world of scholarship and improve understanding of certain issues experienced in the public service.
Advice to new students
According to Paul, many students think they have to handle everything themselves, whereas support is available, both from professors and on-campus services. He stresses that it’s important to form connections with professors and to make a good choice of thesis or research paper supervisor. Good guidance can really change the university experience and help develop the confidence needed to succeed.
Future plans
Paul would like to contribute to reflection on the application of the Official Languages Act and the realities of Francophones in minority settings, particularly in the federal public service. “My research has allowed me to better understand the challenges that persist between policy and its application in the field, and I’d like to be part of the change and solutions in this area,” he says.
He also would like to continue developing his expertise in strategic analysis, research and support in bilingual institutional settings. In the long term, he’d like to start a consulting firm specializing in Francophone immigration outside Quebec, to support the integration and development of Francophone communities across Canada.
Paul is currently working as a guide to the Library of Parliament and a language assistant with the Conseil des Ecoles Publiques de l'est de l’Ontario. He serves as an ambassador to young pupils, promoting a minority language in all its cultural and social richness.