Jaycee McLaughlin completed the HSC in 2015 and is now following a passion at Western Sydney University, focusing on Forensic Science!
1. What degree/course are you studying? How long have you been studying? Full time/part time?
I am currently studying a Bachelor of Science (Forensic Science). I starting studying this year (2016) full time.
2. What University/Institution are you studying at and why did you choose them?
I am studying at Western Sydney University, Hawkesbury campus. I choose this university as it has the best science facilities and was the most convenient, given my location.
3. How many years will you study for?
My degree is a 3 year course. However, afterwards I wish to become an expert in a specific field, so that means I could be studying up to another 3 depending on the field I choose.
4. What has been your favourite part of the course so far?
My favourite part of my course has been learning forensic methods and being able to try them first hand.
5. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced?
The most challenging thing I have faced is adapting to University, while also trying to judge jobs and other facets of life. The balance is tricky!
6. Was the course everything you expected it to be? Were there any surprises?
At the beginning of the course I was expecting it to be much more difficult. However I have found that I look forward to going to uni and completing my practicals and assessments. I also thought I knew exactly what I wanted from the course and what field to I wanted to specialise in, but I have found that there is so much more to my particular course than I first thought. At the moment I’m simply trying everything and keeping an open mind.
7. What is the most interesting thing you’ve covered/learnt so far?
The most interesting thing I have learnt would have to been methods of forensic analyse.
8. Do you have a clear career path or job position in mind? Do you think your degree will equip you with the skills and knowledge to pursue this?
Since attending university I no longer have a strict plan for what path I wish to go down after I finish my degree, however throughout my units we get to explore and try aspects of forensics from different areas of the profession. Due to this I feel that I am equiped to follow whichever path I end up taking in the future.
9. Have you or will you complete any work experience? Does your institution encourage this? Describe your experience briefly if any.
My course doesn’t particularly require or allow us to complete any ‘work experience’ especially when still completing the degree. Further into my course we are planning to attend tours and viewings of forensic labs and more interestingly, the body farm. Every fortnight I complete a Forensic practical component that deals with procedures that we are expected to know in order to excel in the work place.
10. Please provide a quick “day in the life of a Forensic Science student.”
Due to me living approximately 45 minutes from University, I am able to drive there when needed. I am a full-time student which means I complete 4 units per semester. During the first semester i completed Biodiversity, Scientific literacy, Essential Chemistry 1 and Forensic Science. This semester I have classes in Cell Biology, Essential Chemistry 2, Digital forensic photography and Biometry. In each unit I have 3 hour practicals some – weekly and others fortnightly, 2 or 3 hour lectures and in particular units I have a tutorial and workshop class. After a day at university I always have something that I have to do, from worksheets, practical write ups, quizzes, readings and assessments.
Are you considering Jaycee’s degree? Have a look over here at the Western Sydney University website’s page on the Bachelor degree!
Courses at Western Sydney University.
