Stacey Camilleri - BSc (Hons) Forensic Science
There are lots of interactive sessions that involve us thinking and doing, rather than just listening and writing.
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Why Derby?
I chose this degree because the course offered fantastic teaching resources and a practical element that I had not seen offered to the same standard at other universities. The course provides a good base in chemistry, biology and core forensic techniques, which is great when employers are looking at the skills you possess. The best element of this course is the practical sessions that each module offers. In the forensic science modules, each class consists of a spoken lecture, followed by a practical session to practise the techniques. Lecturers try to vary the teaching methods that they use, with most lectures being power points, however there are lots of interactive sessions that involve us thinking and doing, rather than just listening and writing.
The course
There is a wide variety of ages and cultures on my course, which has made for an interesting group of people to work with. I have definitely benefited from being surrounded by so many different people, be they students or staff. Studying at university has broadened my horizons and prepared me for life in 'the real world'. Studying for a degree is hard work, but I have found it quite easy to fit studying in to my daily routine. I have managed the workload by starting assignments as soon as I get them, to avoid the rush to finish everything at the end of the semester. I tend to spend a lot of time on campus, so that I'm not distracted from studying. I have found the library to be a great place to sit down with a group of friends and do some exam revision together, it definitely makes it seem less like hard work!
Extra-curricular activities
I have taken on several roles whilst at university, becoming a student ambassador, student mentor, student advocate and STEM ambassador. All of these positions were advertised to me by the university, giving me a great way to enhance my CV, and earn money doing something that I really enjoy. I get to help out on open days, visit schools to give presentations about my course and run practical sessions with students. I am also the president of the Student's Union Chemistry Society, which myself and a group of friends set up. I have found that participating in societies has been a great way of meeting new people and developing a passion in a wide variety of topics.
Would you recommend the course at Derby?
I would recommend the BSc (Hons) Forensic Science course to people because it is a superb all round course that has lots of career options at the end of it, where you get hands on experience as well as theory. In brief, I have loved my time at the University of Derby, in class or socially. The staff are fantastic, whether you need a bit of extra help with a class topic, or you need someone to talk to because you are home sick, there is always someone around to help you out. This course has helped the development of my career by providing me with a base of knowledge in several different areas, while still maintaining the option of specialising in a certain field , as well as providing me with many extra-curricular opportunities, making me highly employable. I plan on completing a master's degree, spending a few years in industry, either chemistry or forensic based, and then coming back to education to study for a teaching qualification.
