Tips for Writing a Successful Journal Entry

If you’re an international scholar whose first language is not English, you may be struggling to get your journal entries published.

Many times, even if you are a scholar with English as your first language, you can struggle even if you went to one of the top schools that publish the most academic journals, whether stateside or international.

Whether you’re writing for a medical or a scientific journal, you need to know how to get the job done and then get it accepted. This blog will give you a few tips for writing a successful entry for an academic journal.

Take Advantage of Modern Tools

The first thing you’re going to want to do is take advantage of the modern tools offered today. If you’re unsure about translating your journal entry into English, then take advantage of the wealth of technical translation services out there today. It’s better to pay for translation services than to have language mistakes in your entry that will keep it from being accepted by academic institutions.

Write With Others

When it comes to journal entries in a language that isn’t your own, it’s a good idea to write with others. Not only can they help with your research, but many of the group may speak English, which will help you learn the language and also allow you to ask them questions as you write your journal entry.

Always Fact Check Your Journal Entry

No matter what type of content you write, you always need to fact-check your entry before submitting it. For example, if you are an international scholar, then you might not know the ways and customs of the English language. Also, the facts that are true in your country might not be correct in the United States.

On top of that, your reputation is on the line, and it only takes one journalist, one online critic, or even one academic that is suspicious of your journal entry. After that, your whole journal and career can be called into question.

Always Avoid Plagiarism

Under no circumstances, no matter what type of writer you are, should you skip the plagiarism check of your journal entry. This is the fastest way to ruin your career as a scholar and your reputation as well. Plagiarism can lead to expulsion, being fired, and in some cases, being sued and prosecuted for stealing someone else’s hard work and passing it off as your own.

You can avoid being accused of plagiarizing your international journal entries by fact-checking, keeping track of your sources, quoting and paraphrasing correctly, and citing your sources correctly as well. Finally, when your entry is done, check your work, run it through a reputable plagiarism checker, and then check it again.

Plagiarism is a very serious offense, so be diligent and don’t let it happen to you.

Implement Changes From Feedback

Once your journal entry is complete, it’s always a good idea to let someone you trust read it. Letting someone read your work can help you spot facts you might have missed, whether it’s a colleague, a trusted teacher, advisor, or employer, or someone else.

It can also help you to pick up on grammar and word choice mistakes you might not be used to, especially if your first language isn’t English. Finally, make sure to use and implement changes that make sense from the feedback you are given.

These are just a few tips to help you write a successful international journal entry. Make sure that you use a translating service to ensure that the language you don’t understand is right, and then have someone read it over for you when the entry is done for the best results.

Top 10 Colleges for Foreign Language Learning

While most people will think about King’s College in London or Harvard for learning a foreign language, it is not always the best choice because some other colleges and universities are better adapted in terms of educational tools. It means that various foreign language learning practices are adjusted to any person wishing to master a foreign language without being overly complex or demanding. 

Top 10 Colleges for Foreign Language Learning Courses

  1. Princeton University. It combines the social aspects of learning a foreign language with innovative technologies and digital solutions. Starting from Generation Y’s teaching approach to the preparation of technical writers, everything is based on care and attention to detail. It has a great community and team projects that are quite helpful for those who prefer learning through social interaction. 
  2. Columbia University. It is not only an excellent place to learn a foreign language but also an opportunity to secure your future employment. Start by checking various language curriculum offers and then read about top translation companies to determine what will fit your professional plans. Columbia University offers anything from African Studies to such languages as Catalan, Serbian, Welsh, and Icelandic. 
  3. Yale University. It needs no introduction and remains a prestigious institution to focus on the research aspect of learning a foreign language. They offer Directed Independent Language Study, which aims to provide languages that are not traditionally taught at colleges. Letting students direct their curriculum, it’s one of the most flexible foreign language learning methods. 
  4. Duke University. If you seek additional flexibility and want to try various ways of learning a foreign language, it is your safest bet. It would be helpful if you would like to get employment as a freelance translator by polishing your existing skills. You can check language translation services at TheWordPoint to see what certifications are most helpful and proceed from there. This university has a high acceptance rate. 
  5. Dartmouth College. If you want to combine great outdoor activities, online learning, and great academics by learning a language, Dartmouth College has it all. It offers multimedia learning programs and community projects. Their student support is top-notch! 
  6. Indiana University Bloomington. As one of America’s leading research facilities, it offers outstanding language certifications as you graduate. It also offers great employment options for such specialists. You can check professional document translation services to see how your salary will differ with a certificate. It also focuses on rare languages and dialects. 
  7. The University of Notre Dame. It has caring lecturers and an individual approach to every student. If you are still hesitant about learning a foreign language, try them. They have great emotional help service for students who cannot overcome linguistic barriers or start with one’s college studies. 
  8. Wellesley College. An elite college that offers assistance for female students that want to achieve academic success. Their language learning courses focus on Nursing, Political Science, and Journalism. They have an extensive internship network, which is something to consider. 
  9. Rice University Houston. The best choice for technical translators. If you want to combine your major with learning a foreign language, look no further. They offer improved language learning curriculums that focus on your original employment field. 
  10. Tufts University (Somerville). A great choice for students with a Christian background. Their Linguistic Department offers social sciences and cultural aspects. Even if you study Architecture and Biology, they will help you to learn specific terms related to every field. 

What if I Have No Skills?

It only depends on how you learn because there are no people who would be totally unable to learn a foreign language! All college entries in my list are aimed at innovative and flexible teaching methods that are unlike basic school language learning. The best way is to combine your major and future employment with specific language terms. Your initial subject confidence will help you to achieve success. 

BIO 

Henry is a true linguistic aficionado who seeks practical solutions when learning a foreign language. His posts offer innovative ideas that are worth trying as you want to start or continue your education. Follow Henry to learn something new and get inspired!