International graduate, John Ogunjimi, was awarded a Chevening Scholarship which allowed him to pursue his dream of studying Forensic Science at the University of Central Lancashire.
John gained a BSc (Hons) in Industrial Chemistry from his home country Nigeria and upon completion, he started researching into postgraduate options and discovered a passion for forensic science.
Whilst he was searching for UK university scholarships, John completed an Organic Chemistry master’s in Nigeria. In 2019, John applied for the Chevening Scholarship and he selected three universities in order of preference, making UCLan his first choice.
John chose to study MSc Forensic Science at UCLan as the modules were the most practical-based ones. Talking about his degree choice, John said: “The option to major in Crime Scene Investigation with hands-on laboratory experience was something I did not find elsewhere.”
He continued: “Another factor was the wealth of experience and industry experience of UCLan lecturers, with all of them having worked for many years as forensic scientists and some of them still actively combining practice with teaching. This quality resonated well with my career plans, and I knew that being taught by them would also be an opportunity for mentoring.”
"I have no doubt that my studies at UCLan will enable me to continue into my future career."
— John Ogunjimi, MSc Forensic Science graduate
During his time at University, John was a speaker at the Chevening Conference 21 where he gave a presentation about how forensic science can help Nigeria with crime scene investigation and justice delivery. John worked for the University as a Unibuddy International Student Ambassador and as a Testing Operative for NHS Test and Trace. He also worked for Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust as a Medical Science Laboratory Assistant.
In addition, John also volunteered as the Course Representative for the September 2020 MSc Forensic Science class. Alongside this, he was a Mentor and Youth Leader at the Deeper Life Youth and Young Adults Fellowship. In his spare time, John completed a part-time post beginners’ Spanish course at UCLan’s Worldwise Learning Centre.
Talking about his degree experience, John said: “I have no doubt that my studies at UCLan will enable me to continue into my future career.”
Reflecting on his lasting memories at University, John said: “My lasting memories were the days of my practical session for the Practical Fire Investigation module at the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service headquarters. The training on using fire investigation dogs and how to investigate room and car fires was very hands-on and gave the closest real-life experience as possible.”
When asked what advice he would give to those wanting to do something similar, John commented: “Graduates and prospective students should have an interest in ensuring that justice is served, and that as a forensic scientist, their duty is neither to the prosecution nor the defence but always to the truth.”
Useful links
- Subject
Forensic Science
