Kumaree Ramhit

Why study at Kent?

I had always been interested in forensic science but was torn between an analytical chemistry or forensic chemistry course. As the degree at Kent was promoted as having a strong analytical/chemistry foundation and I had the option to switch to forensic chemistry from science, it was obviously the best option for me. On top of that the campus, out of all my university choices, looked the best by far.

How did you find the course?

I enjoyed studying Forensic Science at Kent, there were definitely challenges throughout the years, but I found that the course allowed me to develop as a scientist and as a well-rounded individual because it addressed soft skills and non-scientific writing too. We were pushed to learn how to write lab reports, law essays and lead presentations effectively.

Did the course live up to your expectations?

I would have liked the opportunity to choose a wild module to study but the course structure is quite stringent. Regardless, the course equipped me with the skills and knowledge to acquire a graduate forensic science position straight after university, which is what anyone wants after graduating.

Which part of the course most interested you?

The Forensic Physical Methods module, where we learned about different evidence collection techniques, was fun but I most enjoyed the chemistry module in my final year, Substances of Abuse, as it gave a lot of insight into drug synthesis and expanded upon the organic chemistry I had already learned.

What about your lecturers?

Most lecturers are open to questions and will offer guidance where necessary. However, they generally encourage students to come up with the answers themselves instead of giving them the answer they want straight away.

What did you think about the level of support in your studies?

There are workshops and the lecturers are available during their office hours to offer extra help and the demonstrators are very knowledgeable. There are also supervisors and course tutors to point you in the right direction even if your issue is not academic.

What did you enjoy most about university life?

I really enjoyed university, there are plenty of social activities to suit a range of interests and personalities. The campus is lovely and I really liked Canterbury as a city. No matter what university you go to, your experience is going to be what you make it, but I think Kent, and what it has to offer, made it easy.

What are you doing at the moment?

I’m working as a Forensic Scientist Supervisor at Authenticate, a counterfeits analysis laboratory. I perform forensic comparisons and spectroscopic analysis on a daily basis and write reports on my findings. I’m happy to have found a job that allows me to draw on key skills that were taught on the Forensic Science course at Kent.

My work is extremely diverse and I have supported investigations from around the world, including China, India, Columbia and Nigeria. It is particularly rewarding to know that my efforts contribute ultimately to public health and wellbeing, by stemming the flow of any further counterfeits on to the market.

Any advice for someone thinking of studying at Kent?

The University of Kent is constantly improving, the laboratory facilities are even better now than when I started and the course content enables students to decipher their true interests. I moved from London to study at Kent and really enjoyed how scenic the campus was, I also loved Canterbury and still visit the city from time to time.