Since graduating with a B.A. in French in 1991 (and being on the Bronze Tablet - Joy Nevin), I have earned a Master’s degree in French, an Illinois French teaching certificate, a French D.A.L.F. certificate, and I have become an ATA certified French translator and a Realtor®. 

I have had the privilege of teaching students French for seven years and then working as a French linguist for the Chicago FBI Field Office for eight years.

Now I own my own translation company, Axelson Enterprises Ltd., and Axelson Realty LLC, and enjoy using my French skills almost every day. In March, I was able to attend a major real estate conference in Cannes, France, marrying my two professions.

Majoring in French at U of I was an excellent choice and, not only has it enriched my career, it has also enhanced the quality of my travels to Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean.