Although I always enjoyed mathematics and statistics, I also wanted to find a way to apply them in a concrete way, hence forensic science.
This master was special to me thanks to its small size, the importance it gave to statistics, and the diversity of classes in the first year. I was afraid I would struggle with the chemistry or biology aspect but was looking forward to learning new things. I was pleasantly surprised to see that all courses are accessible if you put the work in.
There is no typical week in master. Usually, a week is composed of 8 to 12 hours of contact hours, which sometimes would be complemented by a practical. We got to explore many different areas of forensic science. Moreover, the master also has a lot of group work throughout, which allows you to learn from other students with different backgrounds. I love this diversity and many opportunities for discovery, and it is difficult to be bored in this master!
I am also part of the Programme Committee – that advices on all educational matters concerning the master, of Verum – the study association of the master, and of the excursion committee – who organises a trip for future first years. As such, I also will spend my time looking over the student feedback for each course, and organising events, from guest lecturers to bowling. Due to the master’s small size, it is very easy to know everyone, and that makes being involved in the social aspects that much easier and fulfilling.
In second year, we will do a 6-months research project. I am planning to go back to my home country, Luxembourg, and maybe work on fingerprints and probabilities, however, I am still open to anything as of now! Same goes for my future career plan, although I might be interested in doing a PhD, but everything is open for now.