Jiya
BSc (Hons) Forensic and Medical Science
Due to experiences in her childhood, and her mum’s love of medical dramas like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Jiya has always had an interest in policing, forensics, medicine and helping people. This led her to study a BSc (Hons) in Forensic and Medical Science at the University of Bradford.
This is her story.
I’ve always enjoyed watching CSI, true crime stories and medical dramas. After certain personal experiences when I was younger, I wanted to explore forensic medicine.
Influence of medical dramas
"Watching these medical dramas sparked my interest to study a healthcare-related subject at university."
"While I didn't necessarily want to become a doctor, I remember watching Doc Martin with my mum when I was younger, which definitely influenced me.
"This, along with personal experiences, inspired me to pursue a career where I could help others and make a real difference. This led me to explore the field of forensics, which aligned with my interests.
"I graduated from college at the top of my class. Initially, I secured a place to study Forensic Science & Human Biology at a different university further from my home. However, I found that the course and university were not the right fit for me.
"Around the same time, my mum suffered a significant injury, and I made the decision to move back home to be closer to her."
I decided to apply to Bradford because it's close to home, ranked highly for forensic science, and because I liked its diverse and welcoming campus.
Inspired by Dr Chris Maguire
"During my application for Bradford, I attended an introductory session with Dr Chris Maguire, Assistant Professor in Forensic Biology. He shared his experiences working on major cases such as the Yorkshire Ripper investigations and 9/11 to name a few.
"It was really inspiring to hear what you can achieve in a career in forensics, and his talk reminded me why I started my studies in this subject."
One of the highlights of my course is the hands-on experience in mock crime scenes.
Immersive environments
"We’re able to investigate simulated crime scenes in setups like a hotel room, bedroom, and pub."
"These immersive environments give us the chance to practise analysing crime scenes, which is crucial in building confidence when collecting evidence in real-world crimes.
"We also spend time in laboratories, working with physical evidence and biological samples. Bradford keeps this realistic which helps to build your knowledge and understanding of how different evidence and chemicals behave.
"One unique tool we have access to is the blood room, where we analyse blood spatter patterns. It’s an invaluable resource that builds our analytical and creative thinking skills, given how unique each blood spatter is.
"This kind of practical experience is vital for preparing us for real forensic work."
Learning about the human body
"One of the most interesting parts of my course has been cell biology. While it’s definitely been challenging, my existing interest when it comes to medicine and learning about the human body has made it one of my favourite topics.
"It’s fascinating to learn about the unique details of each cell and chemical in the body."
Virtual anatomy room
"One practical way that we get to explore this is in the virtual anatomy room, which we get to use in our second year.
"Using a virtual reality table, we can navigate through the various layers of the human body - from bones to muscles and skin.
"This technology offers a hygienic alternative to real cadavers and allows us to explore anatomy as much as we need, without the limitations posed by health and safety concerns."
Exercise, wellness and support
"It’s not just the course that has made my time at Bradford memorable."
"I love to exercise, and the University’s facilities are fantastic.
"Their Unique Fitness gym has a huge range of classes and facilities like boxing, and jiu jitsu, along with a swimming pool and squash courts. Since the course can be quite intense, making time for hobbies helps me unwind.
"I’ve also found that Bradford offers really accessible support.
"Whether it’s the lecturers and faculty helping me through tough exams, or the Counselling and Mental Health Service and Money & Welfare Advice teams, I’ve always been able to find the right help to succeed."
Bright future
"After I complete my course at Bradford, my goal is to study medicine and eventually qualify as a forensic pathologist.
"Down the line, my ultimate dream is to become the chief of police.
"It’s a long process, but I know it’ll be worth it to be able to help determine the cause of a patient’s death, give their voices back and bring people to justice."
Advice to others
"For anyone applying to forensic science courses, I recommend attending as many open days as you can. Speak to lecturers, student ambassadors, and current students to get a feel for the course and the university.
"It’s also important to consider the atmosphere of the town or city - you want to find a place where you’ll feel comfortable and able to settle in. Prioritise your mental wellbeing too!"