MSc Forensic ScienceAmina Sternkopf
Originally from Germany, Amina is currently studying an MSc in Forensic Science, specialising in forensic biology.
In her spare time, Amina enjoys dancing - from Latin to ballroom or swing!
Find out more about her experience at Strathclyde and why she chose to pursue a postgraduate degree.
I truly feel like I have found my calling. Even though the course is challenging and requires a lot of work, I am enjoying every second of it.
What were your reasons for taking on a postgraduate degree?
I felt unsatisfied with my BSc degree and wanted to challenge myself further and step into the world of forensic science. While researching my options I discovered the MSc Forensic Science course at Strathclyde and decided this was my best course of action.
How did you make the decision to study at Strathclyde?
The University, especially the MSc Forensic Science course, came highly recommended by my lecturers who were either involved in forensic investigations or conducting research in this area. After researching the course I learned it the oldest running forensic science masters course in the UK!
What do you like about your course and Strathclyde?
My favourite thing about my course and this university is how invested the teaching faculty are in my well-being and my success. They are friendly, encourage us to ask questions and make sure we understand the concepts we are studying. Coming from a BSc degree where I felt like I was just one of many, it was very encouraging to see your lecturers wanting you to do well and helping you achieve your goals.
What specialist knowledge/professional skills have you developed whilst studying the course?
This course teaches you all the theory and lab skills required to work in the field of forensics. We get such a wide range of training (everything from detecting forgeries in notes to drug detection) that it feels like we are being prepared to step straight into the workforce. In addition, we are taught how to tailor our CVs to specific forensic roles, which is beneficial when applying for jobs!
What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?
I would like to work either as a Crime Scene Investigator or a Forensic Examiner in the future. I believe the University and the MSc Forensic Science have prepared me in multiple ways, not only providing me with the necessary theory and lab skills, but also teaching me how to conduct myself in an interview, how to apply for forensics-based roles and how I can develop new skills to ultimately achieve my goal. I have already got a job interview lined up!
How have you found your time living in Glasgow and what's your favourite thing about the city?
I have enjoyed my time here in Glasgow more than I thought I would. The city has such a unique personality, it is difficult to compare it to anywhere I have lived before. My favourite thing about the city is how varied the people are. Not only are there multiple nationalities and languages floating around in the streets, but most of my peers have such unique backgrounds that it is never boring chatting with them.
I would encourage anybody who is thinking of applying to Strathclyde to absolutely go for it.
Has anything surprised you about living/studying here?
I had heard that the Glaswegians can have a ‘big’ personality. However, moving here, the people I have come across have been nothing but accommodating. As an international student the language barrier might seem challenging (especially with the Glaswegian accent), but nobody made me feel ashamed for it. Quite the opposite, the moment they hear I’m not from the UK they are interested in hearing where I am from!
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to study in Glasgow at Strathclyde?
I would encourage anybody who is thinking of applying to Strathclyde to absolutely go for it. The University and its teachers really care for the students, I have never felt as though an institution cares about my success as much as Strathclyde does!