Sen Translation

About

Thank you for visiting my website. My name is Devin, and I am a freelance translator from Japanese and Taiwanese Mandarin into English. My background is in scientific research, programming, and university teaching, and I specialize in several domains of science and technology. Below, you can find my education and work experience. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at devin@sen-translation.com.

🎓 Education

Doctor of Philosophy, Northwestern University (Graduation 2025)

Major Areas: Cognitive Science; Computer Science; Linguistics
Electives: Chinese, Japanese, TESOL/TEFL
Thesis Area: Computational syntax and parsing algorithms

Master of Science, University of Washington

Major Areas: Computer Science; Linguistics
Electives: Information Science, Chinese, Misinformation
Thesis Area: Machine learning and semantics

Bachelor of Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Major Areas: Computer Science & Engineering; Linguistics
Electives: Japanese, Environmental Technology (GIS, etc.)

🛠️ Work Experience

Scientific Research + Computer Programming

Northwestern University – SSS Lab
University of Washington – Center for an Informed Public
University of Wisconsin Law School
RWTH Aachen – Cybernetics Lab

Teaching

Northwestern University – Department of Linguistics
Northwestern University – English Language Programs

Translation

🇯🇵 Japanese
🇹🇼 Taiwanese Mandarin
*Simplified Mandarin (Mainland China) also available.
↓
🇺🇸 English

Areas of Specialization:

Computer Science & Engineering
Cognitive Science
Environmental Science

Please feel free to inquire about other areas as well.
Contact at devin@sen-translation.com

Translation Process

Step 1: Initial Reading & Quote
Please send me an email at devin@sen-translation.com with a scan of the document(s). I will lightly review the documents to determine the amount of time needed and the cost. I will send you a quote with these details and ask you to confirm it before I begin work.

Step 2: Translation
After you accept the quote, I will first spend time analyzing the style, terminology, and subject matter of the document(s). I may ask you for further clarification on certain details of the document(s). This analysis is important for ensuring accuracy and naturalness in the final translation. Using this, I then produce a rough draft of the translation.

Step 3: Revisions
I perform several rounds of checks and send you a sample of the completed document(s). If you have any required changes, I will make revisions as necessary.

Step 4: Final Delivery
After agreeing on a final version, I will deliver it to you in whichever format you require. I will send you an invoice and request payment within 30 days.

Quotes, Fees, Payment

Q: What currencies do you accept?
A: I accept payment in USD only.

Q: How do I receive a quote?
A: Please send me an email at devin@sen-translation.com with details about your request. After discussing the details, I can issue a quote to you.

Q: How much will it cost?
A: Each project is different, but I ask a minimum of 35 USD. Beyond that, cost depends mostly on the amount of content, the type of content, and the deadline.

Q: Do you offer refunds?
A: I do not typically offer refunds, but I understand that sometimes mistakes and/or miscommunications can happen. If you experience an issue with the translation received, I will issue a revised version as soon as possible and at no extra charge.

Translation Workflow

Q: Do you provide certified translations?
A: In the US, there is no recognized legal process for certification. However, upon request, I am happy to attach a statement of responsibility and accuracy with my signature.

Q: Do you also translate from English into Japanese and Taiwanese Mandarin?
A: To ensure accuracy and naturalness, I only translate into my native language, English-US.

Q: Do you use computer-aided translation (CAT) tools?
A: In general, no. I find such tools can get in the way of fully understanding and working directly with the full document(s). However, if it is requested by a client, I may use Trados or MemoQ.

Q: Do you use AI?
A: Absolutely not. Firstly, these systems pose a major risk to data privacy. Secondly, given that these systems are purely pattern matchers, they have no understanding of the content given to them.

Q: Do you work with translation agencies?
A: I consider work with agencies if they have a record of high quality, pay their translators fairly, and do not use AI.

Q: How is my data stored?
A: Whatever documents you send to me will be stored offline and under password protection. For any software used, I turn off any services that connect your data to third parties.