Portuguese student Clarilis Graciela Colsoul De Almeida discovered that her true passion lies in Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation and after completing a foundation year at Burnley campus, she is now settled into life at Preston campus.
For Clarilis, the most enjoyable part of the Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation (FSCI) course is learning what goes on behind the ‘DO NOT CROSS’ police cordon. “With the whole CSI effect phenomenon, it is interesting and exciting to break down those walls of unrealistic expectations and learn just how meticulous the work of a crime scene investigator is.
“UCLan’s FSCI course does an excellent job at teaching us about the core skills necessary for the role from learning how to photograph a crime scene, how to analyse it, to recovering the evidence and documenting everything correctly. We had a couple of lectures with a really well-known investigator that walked through a double stranger rape case with us, explaining all the steps taken to solved it. That was pretty interesting.”
"UCLan’s FSCI course does an excellent job at teaching us about the core skills necessary for the role"
— Clarilis Graciela Colsoul De Almeida, BSc Forensic Science and Criminal Invesigation student
One of Clarilis’ favourite study facilities is the library. “I often visit the library – it’s huge and so well equipped with amazing staff that are always there to help you. It is suitable for every kind of student and it is open 24/7. There are silent floors with computer rooms if you enjoy studying in a quiet environment; there are floors where you can work freely with your peers.
I have also benefited greatly from the academic skills support services where you can send your written assignments and receive exceptional feedback that helps you adapt your assignment before sending it to your tutors and reach for those extra marks. I have also started taking Spanish classes through Worldwise services. It is such an amazing experience that helps you boost your CV and personal growth.
And last but not least, PASS sessions are another benefit given to UCLan students where you can connect with senior students from your course and get advice from people that have gone through what you are going through at the moment. “I find Preston is a really calm and sociable city. It doesn’t have that crazy, hectic vibe that we can find in the main capitals of England. I noticed that the University campus is scattered all over the city which made it all feel exciting and real. However, I will say that the night life at Preston is lively and electrifying. I love to go out to open mics and karaoke nights!
