UWG IDS Students Bridge Forensic Science Investigation Academics and Field Experience in Unique Ways Share this page
At the University of West Georgia, interdisciplinary studies (IDS) students have access to great career-building opportunities customized to their passions and ambitions.
Seniors Lauren Finch and Emily Allison, pursuing futures in the forensic science and investigation field, are paving the way to success through hands-on learning. From the Biological and Forensic Anthropology Laboratory (BAFAL) on campus to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), these students serve as examples of how practical experience fosters professional and personal growth.
Finch has spent two years as part of BAFAL, a lab dedicated to research in bone biology in both bioarchaeological and forensic contexts. As education coordinator, she is responsible for creating lesson plans that her fellow students can practice.
“I’m excited to help them learn,” said Finch. “You never know what they’ll do with their knowledge.”
Finch has organized workshops for forensic practice techniques, including maceration and histology projects to aid students in their understanding of bone analysis and identification. Through her dedication, she’s developed skills in research, patience and education.
“My time in the lab has helped me gain different perspectives – not only about what I’m learning but also about myself,” said Finch.
“Lauren’s done a lot of great work in BAFAL,” said Dr. Neema Noori, director of interdisciplinary studies. “She’s always looking at ways to further develop her knowledge in forensics.”
Like Finch, Allison has gained valuable experience in the field of forensic science and criminology. With an interest in firearms and trace evidence, Allison completed a summer internship at the GBI’s Northeastern Crime Lab, where she shadowed forensic biologists and chemists, assisted lab technicians with evidence processing, learned how to interpret data, and operated specialized machinery.
“We would take evidence from surrounding law enforcement agencies and test it,” said Allison. “I got to see a lot of things I otherwise would’ve never seen.”
Allison took multiple trips to headquarters, where she explored various lab divisions and learned what is expected of candidates hired by the GBI. In addition, Allison had the privilege of working on a project that bureau chemists later presented at a conference. She was responsible for keeping inventory on drugs the lab received and organizing the data into a spreadsheet.
“It was a really cool experience,” said Allison.
“I think Emily just getting the internship was really fantastic,” said Noori. “It just goes to show what a great student she is.”
Both Finch and Allison have gained invaluable experience through academics and internships. Together, their work highlights the diverse opportunities available at UWG, preparing them for successful careers. For more information about IDS, visit the center’s website.