Q: When did you join the M.S. in Forensic Science and when did you graduate?
A: I joined the MS program in January of 2021 and graduated in December of 2021.
Q: Why did you choose the M.S. in Forensic Science at Syracuse University?
A: I joined the program because I did my undergraduate degree at Syracuse University in Forensic Science and Psychology. My experience was so great here and I wanted to continue that for my Masters. The professors continued to be amazing.
Q: Who did you do your internship/research and how was it?
A: I did my internship with Dr. Katie Kidwell. I looked at how stress and anxiety affect sleep and how that can cause future mental illness within children. This is important because mental illness in children can lead them to have different outcomes such as psychology which can be a danger to society. This experience was great, and I appreciate the involvement and independence Dr. Kidwell let me have.
Q: Where are you working at the moment?
A: Currently, I manage the children's unit at Four Winds Psychiatric Unit in Katonah, NY. Here, I work with kids of varying mental illnesses and make sure they are safe and cared for. I will be starting my internship in Mental Health Counseling at Four Winds, and I am excited to continue my journey there.
Q: How do you apply the knowledge acquired in the M.S. in Forensic Science in your work?
A: My focus within the program was Forensic Mental Health. Through gaining that knowledge, I am able to apply it in my work by knowing how to properly speak to children with trauma and providing different techniques of coping.
Q: What was a major advantage of having done your master's at Syracuse that has helped you at your current position?
A: The major advantage are the people you meet. There is large networking opportunity when you go to Syracuse University. In particular, taking class with and then being a teaching assistant for Dr. James Mikesell was an amazing opportunity. He helped me with grad school and job applications and was overall an amazing support to have.