I'm now a Detective Constable!

Tell us about your career since graduating from Sheffield

I knew from studying psychology at university that criminal behaviour was the main area that interested me. I took a year out after graduating to travel then when I returned home I came across a degree pathway to fast-track as a detective and thought that was perfect. I had debated studying forensics for a masters but knew I would also be interested in conducting police interviews, so this seemed more suited to my end goal. I am currently 4 months into training and will start street duties next month before starting to work on small scale cases where I will do a range of things like visiting crime scenes, looking through CCTV, interviewing witnesses and suspects, giving death messages and building/working on cases.

How did your time at Sheffield prepare you for your current career?

Being able to take modules like Criminal Psychology really enhanced and established the interest I already had in a desire to work with and understand the criminal brain. Even other modules like learning about socialisation and nature v nurture, as well as stress responses have been helpful in evaluating the best and most effective ways to deal with both victims and suspects. 

Similarly, even just the university environment of moving to a different city and socialising and making friends with people from different backgrounds has helped my confidence. I moved to London with no connections here because I was passionate about the job and have been able to make connections here and feel proud about the work I do.

What were the highlights of your time at Sheffield?

The scholarship I received really helped me be able to socialise and not have to have the extra financial stress. It also allowed me to focus on my interests and have a good study/social life balance where I was able to meet people that I then travelled across the world with and would consider my best friends.

My personal tutor was incredible. Dr Emma Morgan was so helpful throughout my time at the university. There were times I would struggle and she would always be supportive and I couldn’t thank her enough for keeping me on track. Sheffield is also a great city that I will always hold dear to me for really shaping me as I grew into the woman I am today. I met some amazing people I’m sure will be in my life forever.

What advice would you give anyone interested in pursuing a similar career to you?

Do it. It’s daunting to take the first step, especially when you’re entering a career you could be in for the rest of your working life, but if you’re passionate about it it’s great. A job will always do for you what you want it to if you embrace it and want it. Specifically in the line of work I have chosen, it’s so rewarding to know I will be able to help people in situations that are tragic and will be able to give people answers and because of that it is a job I am proud to have.