I work at a University in Naarm (Melbourne) as an educational designer, having previously lectured in science and study skills. I live with my partner, and two sun conure parrots who enjoys listening to my online lectures with me. My hobbies are ballet and contemporary dancing, and I’ve been learning Welsh for a few years too. I also volunteer with St John Ambulance providing first aid at community events.
Why did you choose to study PgCert Fundamentals in Forensic Science through Strathclyde?
I was looking for a new challenge, and after finding myself listening to quite a few audiobook memoirs from forensic scientists, I thought it would be a good area to study more. I did some searching expecting a few introductory courses to appear, and Strathclyde’s new PgCert popped up. As I read about the online format, the different topics and streams, and the various learning activities, I was sold and sent off my application within the week. Strathclyde’s reputation as the provider of the UK’s longest running and highly respected Master’s in Forensic Science was also a big selling point for me.
How do you find the online experience?
The online approach was a key reason for me doing this course. I need to fit it around my full-time job and other commitments, so the flexibility is great. The course is very well structured so it’s easy to see what needs to be done each week. The activities are well considered for online. We don’t get the full hands-on lab experience, but we were sent kits with equipment that allows us to do experiments and activities in our own homes to get a good taster. Online simulations also help us learn about the different techniques and technologies being used in forensic science, and we get live workshops and check-ins on a regular basis to connect with the staff and other participants.
What do you like most about your course?
The staff are fantastic – everyone has been so friendly and keen to help us succeed. Whether it was negotiating workshop times to juggle the time differences within our cohort, or organising an extra live Q&A for us to go over problems or get some extra help, we’ve had heaps of support every step of the way.