There are a variety of clubs at Colorado Mesa University. Clubs are a chance for students to get involved and meet new people, but also to progress their future careers. The Forensic Science Club is one of the many career-focused clubs. The club was officially started in 2013 by Melissa Connor, the director of the Forensic Investigation Research Station at CMU, and five other students.
“The Forensic Science Club is a place for individuals interested in forensic science to gather and learn about opportunities to further their learning both on campus and around town,” Kodi Harmon, president of the club, said.
In the meetings, the group will discuss internship opportunities, bring in guest speakers, and take tours of local facilities, like the Grand Junction Police Department Crime Lab and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation lab.
“We give students the opportunity to attend the American Academy of Forensic Sciences conference, an annual international conference when professionals and students come together to discuss many aspects of forensic science and how it can be used in innovative or interesting ways,” Hamon said.
On Sept. 14, the club’s vice president, Amanda Blakely, will speak. She will talk about her internship at the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. The goal of the club is to provide opportunities to students, similar to Blakely’s internship. This club also makes sure that the students understand each field of forensic science.
“I originally joined four years ago because I love forensic science and wanted to know more about it,” Hamon said. “I have been given so many opportunities to further my learning and gain more experience in this field than I ever thought imaginable.”
Through the club, Hamon has been able to network with individuals in the forensic science field. The club adviser, Melissa Connor, also provides opportunities.
There are no current scheduled events for the club, but they want to keep students updated on tours, activities and guest speakers.
“We post everything to our Facebook page (search CMU Forensic Science Club) and on Orgsync to keep everyone updated,” Hamon said. “We will most likely do several restaurant fundraisers and tours of the facilities mentioned above, as well as various other activities.”
The club is open to all students. Most of the students who do attend have an interest in the field. There are generally around 15 people that attend the meetings.
“We can have 25-30 attend our meetings when we have a guest speaker or other interesting activities planned,” Hamon said.
Those students who are interested in the field can check out this club to provide opportunities and information on careers and classes.
