Church Point (NS), July 12, 2019- A native of Prince George, British Columbia, student Kelsey Monsen is passionate about languages. The facts speak for themselves as she speaks three languages: English, French and German. She has already completed two immersion sessions in Germany and three sessions of the Explore Canada program.
Her post-secondary education began at the University of Victoria when she enrolled in the French Certificate Program. However, Kelsey realized that if she wanted to perfect her French further, she had to immerse herself in a Francophone environment and culture. That is why, in the fall of 2018, she enrolled in the Integrated French Immersion Option (IFIO) at Université Sainte-Anne.
The IFIO is designed for students who already have a certain level of French language skills and who wish to improve their French. A variety of extracurricular activities are also available to students to encourage them to talk and practice.
"I enjoyed discovering the Acadian culture, talking to people in the community and having new experiences, all in French. I have had the opportunity to get involved in student life on different occasions, whether as an athlete, a residence host or a cafeteria employee, and I didn't hesitate to do so."
- Kelsey Monsen, recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Scholarships for Study in a Second Language.
Also, as a member of the Université Sainte-Anne Dragons cross-country team, she was named the most improved player in 2018-2019. In addition, at the Gala of Merits held in April, she was awarded the 2018-2019 Women's Rookie of the Year Award for all disciplines.
It is therefore not surprising that her application was selected to receive the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Scholarships for Study in a Second Language established by the Government of Canada. The objective of this scholarship is to encourage young Canadians who wish to improve their proficiency in their second official language of Canada (English or French) and wish to pursue studies, on a full-time basis, at a Canadian university which functions in the other official language and in a milieu in which that language predominates.
In addition to receiving a $7,000 scholarship, she will be reimbursed for travel expenses for a round trip between her place of residence and her host university.
Kelsey just finished the spring semester and has packed her bags for Cape Breton Highlands National Park. From June to August 2019, she will work at the park as a Visitor Experience Officer.
In September 2019, she will begin the final year of her Bachelor of Arts (without major). Initially, she intended to enter the workforce after graduation, but now she wonders if she shouldn't help others learn a second language. Regardless, the skills acquired at Université Sainte-Anne will provide her with many new opportunities. Her adaptability and openness to the world will make her an excellent ambassador for bilingualism.
About Université Sainte-Anne
Université Sainte-Anne, the only French language post-secondary institution in Nova Scotia, offers university and college-level courses as well as a French immersion program and customized training in French as a second language. Recognized for its excellent programs as well as its unique and exceptional living environment, Sainte-Anne offers experiential learning opportunities that promote student engagement and success, and an atmosphere which encourages a culture of excellence in research and development. Solidly established in its community, Université Sainte-Anne is a partner of choice for all those who wish to strengthen the vitality of the regions surrounding its 5 campuses as well as all of Acadie throughout Nova Scotia.
For more information
Rachelle LeBlanc, Director of Communications and Marketing
Université Sainte-Anne
Tel.: 902-769-2114 Extension 7222
Email: