Do you wish to be featured in the Two-Minute Interview? Would you like to learn more about one of your colleagues? Just answer the online questionnaire, or drop us a line at gazette@uOttawa.ca, or contact Sophie Deguire at 613-562-5708.
Sophie Coupal
French Writer and Editor, Language Services
What’s your most important function at the University and why?
I have two (at least!). I write, revise and translate documents paying particular attention to the quality of the French and I answer language-related questions for members of the University community.
What inspires you most about your job?
I love being in the academic world. There’s a reason why I stayed in school until I was 28!
What would your co-works be most surprised to learn about you?
Well, I am a feminist through and through. There! After six months, I finally let the cat out of the bag!
What’s your favourite pastime?
Walking in the woods with the man of my life and my very active dog.
Which five people (living or not) would you like to invite over for dinner? Tell us why.
Michel Tremblay, to whom I owe my most cherished books as well as my love of the French language; George Sand, the only author I ever got back up in the middle of the night to read; Nancy Huston, because her writing is so incredibly beautiful, both in English and in French; J.K. Rowling, whose writing carried me back to my childhood; and my friend Martine, so she could pick the brain of these wonderful artists with me...even though I know she would have something to say about my choice of guests!
What is the best-kept secret at Language Services?
Of the ten full-time employees on our team, six have been with the University for more than 20 years. It is a real privilege to work with such a skilled and talented team every day.
