Goals & Learning

Over the course of my LHSI internship, my career goals have evolved and become more structured. My current goal is to graduate with a bachelor's degree in Forensic and Investigative Sciences and pursue a master's degree in a NAACLS-certified Pathologists' Assistant program. I plan to take at least a semester off before starting graduate school. To ensure this path aligns with my strengths and preferences, I will research different Pathologists' Assistant programs and schools to find the best fit. I also plan to explore opportunities like informational interviews or shadowing to gain deeper insight into the profession.

My internship under Dr. Alexander G. Obukhov has played a key role in confirming my interest in laboratory-based forensic science. The hands-on experience I have gained with laboratory techniques such as isometric tension experiments, solution preparation, and data analysis has reinforced my passion for forensic and biomedical research. I now feel more confident in my ability to use self-knowledge and preferences to make career-related decisions. My experience has shown me that I thrive in laboratory settings, enjoy applying scientific methods to problem-solving, and value attention to detail—skills that align well with my future career plans.

Last fall, my goals included gaining research experience, developing technical skills, and expanding my professional network. I have made significant progress in all these areas. I have successfully conducted research and learned advanced lab techniques. I have also attended networking events and engaged with peers and mentors, which has helped me gain valuable career insights. My understanding of career pathways in forensic science has deepened, and I have refined my interests to include pathology-focused roles.

This summer, I plan to continue building my technical skills by seeking additional research opportunities and further developing my knowledge in forensic applications. During the remainder of my time at IU Indianapolis, I will focus on coursework that aligns with my career goals, participate in relevant internships, and seek mentorship opportunities to prepare for graduate school I will also continue researching Pathologists' Assistant programs and begin preparing application materials. 

• How to successfully conduct research  

  • As a forensic scientist, one is required to conduct thorough and precise research to solve complex cases. Mastering research techniques is crucial in forensic science, as it involves gathering and analyzing evidence, performing experiments, and validating findings. By honing my research skills, I’m preparing myself to contribute effectively to investigations and ensure that my work stands up to scrutiny in legal contexts.  

The following tasks will help me 

1.     Dissection techniques

2.     Fluorescence imaging

3.     Isometric tension measurements

Progress: Over the past several months I have made significant progress in conducting research, particularly in sometric tension experiments using aortic rings. I have successfully learned how to prepare experimental solutions, handle delicate tissue samples, and analyze vascular responses. One major accomplishment has been improving my ability to troubleshoot issues in experimental setups, such as ensuring proper calibration of force transducers and refining techniques to obtain more consistent data. One challenge I faced was mastering the precision required for handling aortic tissue and maintaining sample viability throughout experiments. However, with practice and guidance from my supervisor, I have improved my technique and increased reliability of my results.  

•  How to develop intuition and deepen my understanding of different concepts

  • Forensic science requires thinking beyond the obvious and understanding intricate details of evidence. Developing intuition and a deep understanding of different concepts allows one to interpret data accurately, identify patterns, and make informed decisions. This skill set will help me navigate the complexities of forensic science cases and approach challenges with a well-rounded perspective, making me more effective in my role.

The following tasks will help me: 

1.  Data analysis and interpretation

2. Collaborative research discussions

3. Experimental design and problem-solving

Progress: My ability to think critically about experimental outcomes and recognize patterns in data has improved. I have developed a stronger intuition for identifying anomalies in vascular response readings and understanding the biological implications of my results. Through discussions with my supervisor and lab team, I have gained a deeper appreciation for how endothelial dysfunction contributes to cardiovascular disease. A challenge I encountered was initially struggling to connect the physiological responses observed in my experiments to broader disease mechanisms. However, by actively participating in lab meetings and reviewing scientific literature, I have developed a better grasp of the connections between our experimental data and real-world applications in cardiovascular health.

• Develop critical and quantitative thinking 

  • Forensic science heavily relies on critical and quantitative thinking, as I’ll be analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and presenting findings in a logical and evidence-based manner. These skills are essential for making sense of the evidence, determining the reliability of conclusions, and effectively communicating results in both scientific and legal settings. By developing these abilities, I would be equipping myself with the tools needed to excel in my forensic science career.

The following tasks will help me:

1.     Statistical analysis of experimental data

2.     Hypothesis testing

3.     Data validation

 Progress: I have improved my ability to analyze experimental data using statistical methods to evaluate vascular responses. I have gained confidence in interpreting dose-response curves and understanding the significance of variations in endothelial function. My ability to critically assess data and question inconsistencies has strengthened, making me more effective in identifying experimental errors or unexpected results. A key challenge has been ensuring that my quantitative analyses are both accurate and reproducible. Early in my internship, I struggled with selecting the best statistical approach for specific data sets. Through practice and guidance from my supervisor, I have developed a better understanding of statistical analysis methods used in vascular research.