TESTIMONIALS
Group 1
Shermaine:
Friday nights; nights where people TGIF and party their hearts out or have a good break on the last school of the week. With sp3202, I can’t. But sp3202 is definitely worth my Friday nights’ time. During the short span of 3 hours each week, we get to gain insights into how forensics is being used to solve cases in reality. The most memorable part of sp3202 was experiencing what it is really like to be a CSI during our practical exams and lawyers during the moot court exam. My biggest takeaways from sp3202 would definitely be the precious friendships forged; my lovely team mates - from awkward persons on the first day we met to having such great team work and rapport during practical exams to doing silly things like eating 2x spicy noodle challenge while discussing our crime scene report! Haha! Also, not forgetting the fun and awesome profs who added spice to the 7-10pm night lectures, making me look forward to every Friday night’s lectures! Each and every lesson was so interesting and insightful, 3hours felt just like a blink of an eye! If I could, I would take sp3202 every sem and I wouldn’t spend my Friday nights in any other way!
Xin Hao:
What I like most Is before lesson when i asked to dabao western food lamb chop plus spaghetti. She ask me eating here or takeaway. So i said takeaway.
Jia Nuo:
What I like most abt the mod are the chill no-stress lab sessions in the first half of the sem, which were rlly fun and enjoyable
Group 1
Shaun:
SP3202 is a buy-one-get-one-free deal. In the first half, we learn actual crime scene processing skills, which is so cool because we get to do actual CSI stuff like fingerprint dusting, footprint molding and superglue fuming, and even visit the Home Team Academy Crime Scene Village. In the second half, we are taught various aspects of the law, which I personally like a lot because the topics are quite contentious so there is a lot of room for debate. The coolest part is that we get to conduct mock court trials and cross-examine our friends! I don’t think any other module in NUS offers this two-in-one ultra-cool combination. Or rather, three-in-one, because you also get to meet nice people like Shini and Agnes, who happen to be my fabulous groupmates =D
Agnes:
My biggest dream was to be a detective when I was really young because I thought it was cool. I still do. And SP3202 was the first step I took to pursue my dream of becoming an investigation officer.
What I like most of SP3202 was the practical sessions during the first few weeks. We were given an opportunity to put knowledge into practice, for an examination at the Home Team Academy. It was a wild adrenaline ride during the examination but I really enjoyed the experience with my team mates.
I'm really thankful to be able to accumulate so many experiences in a single course. I am also grateful for the guidance and patience from my wonderful professors, always bringing joy in every lesson. Thank you.
Shini:
SP3202 has been a really interesting, thought-provoking and engaging module that I truly enjoyed reading as it enlightened me with the various areas involved in solving a crime, from crime scene investigation to court trials. Prof Stella and Prof Eugene were so dedicated and passionate about what they teach and would go all out to ensure that we understood the concepts. Undeniably, my proactive and friendly group members made the entire learning experience a much better one. Glad to have made such nice new friends.
Group 2
Yuan Shen:
Forensic Science is something that we are exposed minimally in Singapore. Coming into NUS, I am very fortunate to be able to learn more about Forensic Science and can now relate better to the hard work and tedious process of forensic experts during case work. Coming from LSM1306 and into SP3202, all students like myself are exposed to deeper level with respect to practical and law aspects of Forensic Science, empowering us the useful knowledge and hopefully to build a stronger forensic community within Singapore.
Cheng Ngee:
The forensic science minor has always been a priority even before I matriculated, and finally living this experience has been both challenging and rewarding. Getting hands-on experience in SP3202 on crime scene processing and even mooting has broadened my perspectives concerning forensic science, and has solidified my resolve to pursue a career and calling in forensic science.
Jocelia:
SP3202 is one of the best modules I have taken in NUS throughout my 3 years here. The opportunity to be able to conduct crime scene processing is so valuable and I learnt so much in the process. The chance to do moot courts is such a rare and exciting experience. Being a science student, we lack the opportunity to gain such exposure. SP3202 readily prepares us for work in the forensic field in the future and I am extremely fortunate to be a part of its 10th batch!
Group 3
Lim Wei Min Gary:
Why do you like forensic science?"
"It's interesting; a different experience. Not something you see or learn everyday."
Afreen Chawla:
"What motivated you to join the forensic science minor?"
"Firstly, it was my ardent interest in the forensic science field having grown up reading crime, thriller and mystery novels. And secondly, my experience of taking LSM1306, the introductory module to this area, and how broad and varied it was, also prompted me to apply for the minor programme."
Aimee Lee Wang Ci:
"What are your favourite and least favourite parts of the forensic science field and/or our lessons?"
"Favourite: the interesting hands-on experiences combined with a good theoretical foundation. Least favourite: the amount of admin required for the crime scene report!"
Group 4
Grace:
"Why did you choose to join the forensics science minor?"
I blame television. No, not CSI, never watched that before; It was definitely our humble local Crimewatch series that first got me into criminal justice. Sneaking to watch the show past my primary school bedtime remained a fond memory throughout the years. As for forensics specifically? A game called Ace Attorney sparked my passion for the forensics sciences. Please play Ace Attorney.
"What is the biggest takeaway from SP3202?"
Criminal justice is hard work! From collecting, preserving and processing evidence to putting the pieces together to making your point in court, great care must be taken to ensure that no criminal gets away with any less punishment that they deserve due to even the slightest mistakes.
Quote:"How...?" - Me upon receiving the acceptance letter for Forensics Sciences Minor
Elson:
“Why did you choose to join forensic science minor?”
I have always been interested in criminal investigative shows, especially Sherlock (UK). During my polytechnic studies, I took up an elective on forensics and was interested by how the different aspects of science (from genetics, to analytical chemistry) are applied into forensic field. And when presented the opportunity in NUS, I gladly took up the forensic science minor to further explore this interesting field, and I would say I wasn’t disappointed at all~
“What is your most memorable moment in SP3202?”
As of now (Week 12), I would say the most memorable moment would be the crime scene practical exam that was held at Home Team Academy. It was a wonderful experience for us to have great mockup experience of how it is like to process a crime scene. Although it was very tiring and stressful, looking back, it was indeed a great experience to have~
Quote:“When you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.” - Sherlock Holmes in The Sign of the Four
Adeline:
'What is the most memorable part of SP3202?'
The practical exam is probably one of the memory I will have of my time in NUS. Even though I felt unprepared for the practical and I was very disorganised during the practical, looking back at it now, the experience was really one of a kind. The adrenaline, panic and stress as we raced against time was really a test of our abilities. I am honoured to be given the opportunity to experience something like this.
“Why did you choose to join the forensics science minor?'
Since young, I have always been interested in crime-solving novels and movies. People around me would attribute my interest in forensic science to the “CSI effect”, and I would not deny that. I am aware that CSI does not portray the full picture of a crime scene investigation, which is why I want to get into this minor and learn more in depth about the whole process.
Quote:
“You see, but you do not observe.” – Sherlock Holmes in A Scandal in Bohemia
Group 5
Dylan:
Practitioners of forensic science are akin to translators. We help translate the testimonies of evidence into words that help to tell the victims’ stories that would otherwise be lost. As such, our job as forensic scientist is simple yet sacred. We just need to operate within the limits of science and let the evidence speak for itself and most importantly, make sure that no voices of evidence are left unheard.
Mathavi:
This comes with a fair warning - my experience is vastly different from the rest of the batch. Technically, I am not a part of the batch, since I’m not a Forensic Sciences Minor. Yet, this course, the endearing professors, a lovely class, and the best set of teammates I could possibly hope for, have made me feel like I am very much a part of this batch. As a graduate student from the faculty of law, I have never had the opportunity to read such a hands-on course in any of my previous educational qualifications. Personally appealing to Prof. Stella Tan for permission to read this course, has possibly been the best decision I have made in my time at NUS. The professors have been a constant source of encouragement and guidance, which were crucial to overcoming every single hurdle in my application.
As for the course itself, my dream of experiencing a day in the life of a CSI has come true solely because of it. The practical exams, as strenuous and difficult as they were, have been the most exciting mode of evaluation I have ever undergone. Sleepless nights spent in preparation with my teammates were completely worth the fun we had. I have gained vital insights into the practical realities and theoretical science behind evidence collection and analysis, instrumental to lawyers for both the prosecution as well as the defence. The modules on criminal law in Singapore have been particularly useful in many of my other courses with the Faculty of Law, since I was seriously lacking in this knowledge as an international student. Just as important are the cross examination moots, which prepare me for one of the most challenging aspects of criminal justice advocacy. Most importantly, thanks to this course, I now have mentors and friends for life!
As I prepare to embark on a significantly different yet connected trajectory in my criminal law career, I look back fondly at these memories, in the hope that my future will let me experience it all in real life as well. Thank you Prof. Stella, Prof. Eugene, and batch 10!
Xuan qi:
I chose forensic science because it has always been my dream to help the vulnerable. Coupled with my interest in the sciences, forensic science really appealed to me. My teacher once told me that the injustice in the world is not because of the violence of bad people, but because of the silence of good people. His words stuck with me, and it made me want to do my part to help victims of crimes.
Ann:
The contact I had with forensic science left a trace on my life. The experience was definitely rewarding. It was super unexpected for us when Prof Stella announced our group to be one of the top for the crime scene practical exam. We wouldn’t say we did everything very well (we did miss out some stuff🤐) but we believe that we collaborated well enough. We assigned ourselves different roles during the practical and were on our toes, constantly taking note of what’s happening and if any of us needed help. We were all busy to the very last minute of the practical exam especially because we analysed the hardest evidence last😣. But thankfully, we have an amazing TA who is willing to be our timekeeper for us so we are constantly aware of the time that we have left.
Group 6
Phoebe Teo:
My biggest takeaway from SP3202 is the CSI practical as it is a very real-life, practical experience which we don't get in other modules. It also encourages us to explore and improvise our own style of working and teaches us to work as a team!
Jessica Kng:
What is most memorable was probably the practical cause the practical is unlike any other practicals in NUS hahaha.
I feel like its very interesting cause it gives us insight into real life crime scenes. It's also unique where it isn't as guided like other practical modules. It stimulates thinking and application of the things we learn in textbooks.
Yip Shang Mei, Cherie:
Biggest takeaway for me is no matter for disastrous or hectic a situation is, there will always be reliable teammates to fall back on.
Mun Le Yuan:
To me, the most memorable part is when we had our final practical exam. It was during the final moment of evidence packing that I made my biggest contribution to the deductions my group had - I figured that if we were to be hired as crime scene investigators, we will be assigned solely the task of disposing trash. Haha kidding! We will get better (hopefully). In the midst of adding more pieces of evidence to what we were given, I think we actually had fun! It was really quite an experience!
Group 7
Trina:
A workout a day keeps the muscle ache away.
Qiongjing:
The maze on your fingertips is a map that will lead me back to you.
Joey:
I tell bad forensic jokes first because the good ones are latent.
Jenessa:
In forensic, we don't just see, we observe everything.
Group 8
Xin Pei:
Forensic Science has always been my passion since Secondary School and I have always been interested in criminal justice and how Forensic Science can bring justice to the victims, by linking the perpetrators to the evidence and crime scene. “I only did one thing in my life-that is to make impossible possible”, Dr Henry Lee has always been a significant figure who inspires me to speak for those who are unable to speak for themselves in court. This Forensic Science Minor brings me closer to my goals and passion, which is to be Senior Crime Scene Specialist or Investigation Officer to prevent genuine perpetrators from being set free due to lack of evidence and also innocent people being wrongly convicted.
Being accepted in the Forensic Minor Programme is really an privilege and a dream come true for me especially since it is the reason why I want to come to NUS. The best takeaway from the minor is of course the friendships forged, during the weekly practical sessions, preparation for the practical exam and during the once-in-a-lifetime experience to have our practical exam in the Home Team Academy Training Village! And of course the lectures and practical sessions with our beloved Profs and Supt Lei are unforgettable!
Regan:
A chance meeting with a storybook strewn on the floor made it one of the most thrilling experience I ever had with a story - Sherlock Holmes. I was blown away by how logical the deductions were put across by Sherlock and how everything seemed to click despite how insignificant the detail seemed to be earlier. From there, I started watching all sorts of crime shows, CSI, Psych all that could be found on a TV network. My favourite however would still be documentaries showing difficult real life cases that seemed impossible to solve but yet due to forensic evidence, the accused was convicted. That was how I fell in love with forensics!
Best part of SP3202: The friends I met in there and also the tests given are one of the most interesting in NUS. Ranging from handling a crime scene to arguing in a court, it tests both law and forensics theory which I believe goes hand in hand for Forensic Science.
Gun Tang:
Since young, I have been watching the Forensic Hero series from TVB. Therefore, I am always intrigued by how investigators are able to solve a crime with little trace of evidence. You could also said that this series inspired me to take up this minor and hopefully, I will become a forensic scientist or crime scene investigator in the near future. And surely, the forensic minor is indeed fun and interesting to take especially the practical at HTA. Although it was rushing and tiring, it was a great and fun experience that only happen once in a lifetime.
Kemberly:
The forensics science minor programme has practical sessions that provide hands-on experience of how proper forensic science is done. I bet no one would ever forget the crime scene processing simulation at Home Team Academy. Afterall, it's a once in a lifetime experience where you get a taste of how a crime scene specialist works. It's really challenging because we only had one short exercise in school, not to mention on the first lesson of SP3202 where we were still so clueless; we also had to navigate through a new environment. Algebraically, there were too many unknowns; it is almost possible to premeditate what would happen no matter how prepared you were. The law component that follows tie in nicely with the topics on evidence collection. If you think about it, in addition to law, forensic evidence is the nail in the coffin for securing a conviction.
Group 9
Elaine Sim:
I think the biggest takeaway for SP3202 is the fact that we get to experience and learn the intricacies behind how law and forensic science come together to help achieve justice in the Singapore context. This is not something that could be learnt in any other modules in NUS if you are a non-law student! And added upon the fact that our lecturers are experienced in those fields, it makes this module all the more interesting and enriching since real life situations and cases were taught to us.
Samantha Phua:
The most memorable part of SP3202 would be the crime scene practical examination at Home Team Academy. It was the only time we could act as Crime Scene Specialists, applying the techniques and knowledge taught in class to process the crime scene.
Kimiie Chia:
Through SP3202, we got to experience what it's like to actually process a crime scene, collect evidences, and finally put the pieces together which made me realise all the hard work that goes on at crime scenes. It wasn't easy, but it was definitely fun and a one-of-a-kind experience. We also had to work together as a team which bonded us as a group.
Nur Qasrina:
I really enjoyed my time at Home Team Academy during the practical assessment. Even though it was really stressful towards the end and I blundered about a lot, it was a really fun experience.