MSc Forensic ScienceVallary Mayer
My name is Vallary Mayer, I graduated in September of 2023 from the Strathclyde MSc Forensic Science program (Chemistry stream).
I am from Canada, and before attending Strathclyde, I obtained my BSc in Forensic Science from Trent University in Ontario, Canada. I lived in Glasgow for 6 months after I graduated, but moved back to Ontario to be closer to my family.
Currently, I work as a lead laboratory technician with SGS Inc. My role in this position includes managing several ICP-OES instruments and analysing/reporting geochemistry data to clients.
What were your reasons for taking on a postgraduate degree?
Forensic science has gained a lot of popularity over the past 5 years. I wanted to make myself more appealing to companies hiring for forensic roles by obtaining a Master’s degree. I also enjoy educating myself, and the opportunity to move to Scotland and complete a MSc was one I could not give up.
How did you decide to study at Strathclyde?
I was looking at a few schools throughout the UK, but I settled on Strathclyde due to their chemistry-based forensic program. I have a particular interest in forensic chemistry, and it seems many other schools advertise the crime scene investigation side of forensics. Strathclyde also caught my attention as their Masters in Forensic Science program is the longest running program of its kind and was ranked number one in the UK by the Complete University Guide Subject League Tables in the years I applied and attended.
What do you like about your course and Strathclyde?
I loved the professors who taught the Masters program for Forensic Science. They were all very enthusiastic about their jobs and created a positive learning environment for everyone. Coming from Canada where there seems to be a very distinct hierarchy between professors and students, it was refreshing to have professors that treated you like an equal who valued your opinions and curiosity.
What specialist knowledge/professional skills have you developed whilst studying the course?
I developed a wide range of knowledge and skills through the MSc Forensic Science program. This program allowed me to take the theory we learnt in lecture and apply it hands-on in real life scenarios, following evidence all the way from the crime scene to the courtroom. I personally developed many laboratory skills, including the analysis of biological materials for the presence of toxins, as well as research and method development.
What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?
My ambition for the future is to become a Forensic Toxicologist for the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police). This role is held to a very high standard and is very competitive. My time at Strathclyde will help me achieve this as the Master’s degree not only gave me the education I needed to prove myself for this role, but also allowed me to gain experience in the lab. Strathclyde
How have you found your time living in Glasgow, and what's your favourite thing about the city?
I loved living in Glasgow. The city is so interconnected with many shops and cafes within walking distance of each other. As everything was so close together, it was easy to accomplish lots in one day. You could go shopping, study at the school library, and meet with your mates for a coffee all in one day without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. The nightlife was also great in Glasgow. So many fun spots, all with their own attractions, which allowed for very diverse nights out depending on where you went.
You could go shopping, study at the school library, and meet with your mates for a coffee all in one day without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.
Has anything surprised you about living/studying here?
I was a little shocked that the Universities had their own bar/ hangout area for the students. In Canada, post-secondary schools don’t provide the best recreational areas to relax and have fun in. It was very refreshing to have a spot to meet with your friends and relax while completing a challenging degree. I think it is very important for schools to stand with their students by endorsing taking breaks and relaxing. It was a nice surprise to see that Strathclyde has done that.
What do you do to relax in your spare time? Are you part of any clubs with the Students' Association?
I was not a part of any clubs during my degree, but I did use the Strathclyde gym and swimming pool in my spare time, which really helped with managing my stress. I also enjoyed spending time at The Terrace, especially the weekly quiz nights.
Have you managed to explore anywhere outside of Glasgow?
I did lots of exploring while living in Glasgow. Around Scotland, I visited Edinburgh on several occasions which included a walk down Victoria Street and a visit to the National Museum of Scotland. I also did a tour of Loch Lomond. I was also fortunate to travel around Europe while living in the UK, including Spain, Denmark, Norway, and Germany.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to study in Glasgow at Strathclyde?
I would 100% recommend studying at Strathclyde. The school and the professors are amazing and provide lots of support, especially for international students. For me, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I learnt so much and grew so much as a person while living in Glasgow. I would do it all again in a heartbeat.
Interested in studying Vallary's course?
Learn more about MSc Forensic Science.