Why did you choose to do Forensic Science with a Placement Year?
I chose to study Forensic Science because I enjoyed chemistry and biology at A Level, however, I wanted to study something at university a bit different to what I’d been doing before. For me, Forensic Science applied the subjects that I’d enjoyed at school in a new, interesting way, and in a wide range of different topics from fires and explosions to DNA analysis. I also opted for the placement year option so that when I left university, I’d not only graduate with a degree, but I’d also gain some experience in the industry, which would help me to decide what jobs interested me and give me an even greater chance at getting a job that I wanted.
Tell us about your Placement!
I spent my year in industry working at Procter & Gamble in their Research and Development group in Newcastle. Throughout my year I got hands-on experience working in a professional lab with teams across the globe. At P&G, I got the opportunity to manage my own projects, and throughout my time there I helped develop small-scale test methods for their products, which are now used at P&G sites around the world. I loved my placement year having been able to experience working in an industry that interests me, living in a new city, earning my own money, and making a group of lifelong friends.
What kind of skills did you gain?
Throughout my placement, I not only gained scientific skills and knowledge, but skills such as leadership, project management, and communication which have helped me when looking for employment. It has not only improved my CV, helping me to be seen by recruiters, it has also greatly helped me in interviews as I’m able to draw on my experience and skills gained from my placement year.
How did Kent services help you through the process?
By choosing to do a placement year at the University of Kent, I had the freedom to work wherever interested me that was related to my degree. The Careers and Employability team greatly helped me when looking for a placement by offering resources such as CV workshops, as well as application advice and mock interviews, to ensure I was as confident and ready as I could be when applying. The Natural Sciences Careers and Placements team also offered great advice, showing me the types of placements available and exactly where to look for them. These resources were also available to me when looking for employment after university.
How have you found being a Student Ambassador for Forensic Science?
Throughout my time at university, I have been a student ambassador, meaning I’ve represented the university at a variety of events. I would absolutely recommend signing up for this role, there are job opportunities to suit everyone, from helping out at open days, doing campus tours, and talking to prospective students about your subject, to doing outreach activities at local schools, attending UCAS events, and running workshops for young students. It’s a great way to gain experience, meet new people, and earn some extra money. It’s also a great job to have whilst studying as it’s very flexible, meaning you only sign up for jobs you want to do.
Have you got any ideas about the future?
I’m excited to start my new role as a scientist in the defence sector once I leave university, and I look forward to growing my skills and knowledge throughout my time there.
Quickfire questions!
What’s your favourite spot in Canterbury?
Westgate Gardens is a great place in Canterbury to visit. It’s a very pretty and peaceful place to sit and relax, whether it’s to study, to read a book, or to have a picnic and some drinks with friends.
Do you have a favourite place on campus?
One of my favourite places on campus is Woodys. It’s a great place to hang out with friends for some cheap food or drinks, and they always have something to entertain different types of people, such as showing sports matches, having board games to play, and running a pub quiz on Sundays.
Did you live in university accommodation? What was the best thing about that?
In my first year I lived in Turing College on campus and I loved it. It was great to be able to so near to everything on campus, as well as meeting new people, and making friends. I still live with people in my fourth year who I lived with in my first year.