Allashay Hurn
2nd-year student, Bachelor of Science in Biological Science with minors in Biomedical Science and Chemical Science
Her dream is to become a forensic scientist one day, says Allashay Hurn who is studying a Bachelor of Science in Biological Science with minors in Biomedical Science and Chemical Science.
“I’d really love to work as a forensic scientist. I find the work so fascinating and working hand-in-hand with the amazing police force of the country would be my dream. I have a passion for solving mysteries and working in a laboratory environment. The thought of being able to aid grieving people or even help to give closure to families and friends is something I hold very high.”
To help prepare her for her future career she decided to study biological science, which is a recommended foundation for the career path she hopes to follow.
“There’s a strong recommendation that I obtain some form of biological degree if I want to work in forensic science one day. The degree that stood out to me was AUT’s Bachelor of Science in Biological Science as it encompasses everything around us as well as inside our bodies, which I find extremely fascinating. The field of biology is extremely broad, and I wanted to obtain knowledge in other broad sciences that are useful for different jobs in the future. That’s why I decided to also minor in chemical science and biomedical science.”
One big family
She has been impressed by the academic staff she has met at AUT, Allashay says.
“The lecturers take the time to help those who are struggling and offer assistance for anyone who needs it. The staff are always happy, and welcoming and encouraging towards young students who they would like to see succeed in the future. There is a strong homely ‘vibe’ among the students as if we’re all one big family, which I really like.”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Bachelor of Science in Biological Science to other students.
“AUT has a wide range of study options for almost any career you would want to go into. The lecturers are all well-versed in their subjects and there’s plenty of academic help available. The lectures are taught in depth, and it’s extremely helpful to have the lectures recorded as well.
“There’s also a large group of individuals who provide help in many different forms like the Employability Lab, IT support team; AUTSA, the student association; the varying health and wellbeing support groups, as well as the academic support given by faculty members. The on-campus health centre shows the utmost care for the health of students, be it mental or physical health. There are also sufficient places to study in silence or in groups, as well as places like the AUT gyms where you can catch a workout between classes.”
Advice for other students
Now in the second year of her studies, Allashay has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their university studies.
“You don’t always need to get top marks in all subjects. You don’t need to work yourself to the bone studying for a test because you want an A in it. Just being at university and taking that step to better your future is an incredible feat and can’t go unrecognised. I can guarantee that in 10 years’ time when you’re working in the job of your dreams, with the degree you earned from hard work and dedication, in however many years you took to achieve it, you won’t be thinking about that C- you got in one of your tests in year 2 of your studies.
“It’s good to work hard, but don’t burn yourself out and don’t beat yourself up. Failing a class doesn’t make you a failure; it gives you a chance to approach that class again with a different mindset and understanding. Work at your own pace and try your best, as long as it’s your best it’s good enough.”
As someone who has worked hard at her studies and is proud of receiving all A’s in her first year at AUT, Allashay says she has appreciated the passion of her lecturers.
“I work extremely hard to learn the topics being taught, but I don’t always immediately understand everything, which can be very frustrating. What has helped me the most is the passion and love for education my lecturers have. They’ve constantly answered my questions in class, they’ve replied to emails with utmost professionalism to ensure that I understand the topics and they’ve even offered after-class assistance in their free time. I appreciate every single staff member for their continuous encouragement and support of students’ academic lives.”
