ALFRED — Seven forensic science students traveled to Atlantic City, N.J. to attend the 50th annual Northeastern Association of Forensic Scientists.
The students, along with Professors Wayne Bensley and Nicole DiRado, attended sessions where research activities by graduate level students and practitioners in working crime laboratories were presented. Topics included DNA/biology, crime scene criminalistics, drug chemistry, trace evidence, fire debris and toxicology.
Benjamin Jordan, Maddison Libby and Deanna Gannon, combined with Jamie Roberts, entered the George W. Chin Collegiate Competition. The Alfred State quiz-bowl competition team finished third.
In large sessions, students heard from a variety of speakers on topics that included “The Past 50 Years and the Future of Forensic Science: The Criminal Defense Perspective,” Forensic Science in the Courtroom: Legal Challenges and Collaborative Solutions” and “Inspiring Minds: The Evolution of the Next Generation of Forensic Scientists.”
“By participating in this conference, students in the forensic science technology program at Alfred State were able to witness the real-world applications of what they are studying in their chosen major,” commented Bensley. “Hearing from, and interacting with, professionals in the field, our students were able to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of the field of study they have chosen.”
Bensley and DiRado along with the students also took part in an outreach and college fair where they were able to interact with high school students interested in the field.
Gannon felt it was a terrific opportunity to meet people who are in the forensic field. “There was no way I was going to pass up an opportunity to speak to and meet people who may offer me a job someday. It was a very educational and enjoyable experience.”
“My favorite experience of this trip was spending time speaking with the vendors. Many of them brought scientific instruments or products that are groundbreaking in forensic science, which was exciting to hear about as I am about to pursue a job in the field.”
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