Student Ambassador Program
Unlock Your Future in forensic science
Are you a passionate student pursuing a degree in forensic science, eager to dive into the world of cutting-edge research and groundbreaking advancements? Look no further! The ISHI Student Ambassador Program is your exclusive gateway to unparalleled opportunities at the International Symposium on Human Identification (ISHI) conference.
The application window opens on February 3, 2025.
Connection
Immerse yourself in an atmosphere buzzing with intellectual curiosity and expertise. As an ISHI Student Ambassador, we will showcase you and your research on our website and social channels, introducing you to other attendees and jumpstarting the networking process. At ISHI, you’ll be granted VIP access to an extensive network of professionals, scientists, and industry leaders in forensic science. Forge connections that extend beyond the conference, opening doors to mentorship, collaborative research, and potential career opportunities. You’ll also have access to all networking functions, including the dedicated Young Scientists’ Showcase, Welcome Reception and Wednesday night off-site dinner event. Seize the chance to interact with those at the forefront of forensic science, expanding your network and fostering relationships that last a lifetime.
“Beyond the inspiring people I met, the fresh perspectives I gained, and the valuable input for my research, meeting the other student ambassadors alone made this trip worthwhile!”
Charlotte Sutter // Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine
Opportunity
Picture yourself at the forefront of innovation, surrounded by experts who share your passion. The ISHI Student Ambassador Program offers more than just a conference; it’s a launchpad for your future in forensic science. Gain insights into the latest technologies, methodologies, and breakthroughs that are shaping the industry. Receive complimentary registration to participate in pre and post-conference workshops, panel discussions, and hands-on sessions that will elevate your understanding and skill set. Uncover internships, research opportunities, and potential collaborations that can set you on a trajectory towards success.
“My experience as a student ambassador was truly extraordinary. I had the opportunity to connect with forensic scientists from around the world, gaining valuable insights that broadened my understanding of global perspectives in the field. The Young Scientist Showcase was particularly inspiring, as I got to learn and discuss a variety of research conducted by my peers and had the chance to support and cheer them on in their endeavors.”
Ahana Chatterjee // Sam Houston State University
Inspiration
Witness the power of inspiration as you attend captivating keynotes and presentations from trailblazers in forensic science. The ISHI conference is a melting pot of ideas, sparking creativity and motivation that will drive your academic and professional pursuits. Be inspired by real-world success stories, innovative research, and the impact forensic science has on society. The ISHI Student Ambassador Program is not just about attending a conference; it’s about leaving with a renewed sense of purpose and passion for your chosen field. Present your scientific poster to an in-person audience, including mentors you’ll be able to take selfies with later. We’ll also record a video interview of your poster presentation to be shared on our social channels later, leading to further connections.
“ISHI was my first major forensic science conference, and I could not have had a better experience. The experts at the conference were very welcoming and took the time to talk to you if you approached them. The same thing was true for the vendors. The poster sessions were relaxed and allowed me to feel at ease. I loved being able to interact with people who were interested in my research, and I both learned a lot and got ideas about my research from attendees who stopped by. ”
Ashley Welk // ThomasJefferson University
The Next Steps
Interested in applying? Here’s what you need to do.
Draft a written essay answering the following questions using between 500 to 750 words total.
- Forensic science can be a demanding career. The work may be exacting and tedious without a lot of recognition for a job well done. How did you decide that forensic science was the career for you? What aspirations do you have for your career after graduation and what is your scientific area of focus?
- If you are selected to attend this year’s ISHI, what do you hope to gain from your participation? What impact might participation in ISHI have on your personal and career growth?
- If you are awarded free conference registration, you will be asked to present a scientific poster. Briefly describe what your scientific poster will be about.
Prepare a video recording between 30 seconds and 2 minutes long.
The video should explain why you would like to participate in this year’s conference. It can elaborate on any aspects of the conference that especially appeal to you (i.e., meeting a certain speaker, attending a specific workshop, participation in networking events, etc.). Don’t be afraid to let your personality show through. The committee is looking for candidates who can communicate their excitement for forensic science to fellow students.
“I really enjoyed getting to spend time with Ph. D. students as it is not something I typically do. I was eager to hear about their research projects as well as learn more about their programs. I have often debated the idea of continuing to further my education by obtaining a Ph.D. Hearing from students currently on that path has made me reconsider what my next steps will be after graduating with my master’s degree.”
Kierra Eckenrode-Fields // Towson University
Four winners will be selected by a group of reviewers from the ISHI Committee. Selected students will receive waived registration for ISHI and any additional workshops held at ISHI (*Travel and hotel accommodations are the responsibility of the student.)
The students awarded free registration will be asked to co-coordinate the Young Scientists’ Showcase offering 10-minute presentations to fellow students and those newly graduated. Ambassadors will also be asked to provide the ISHI committee with (but not limited to) the following materials to be shared on social media by ISHI show management:
- A head shot or photo of the student.
- A day in the life series to be shared on our Instagram stories.
- Two interview style blog posts before the ISHI symposium to get to know you better and to preview your poster research
- Photos to be shared on the student’s social media channels of you preparing for the conference.
- A scientific poster presentation at ISHI.
- Social media posts each day of the ISHI conference.
- Onsite interviews at the symposium with the ISHI media team including (but not limited to) sharing of the student’s scientific poster, and a sit-down interview
- A handful of photos taken at the event.
- An interview style blog post after ISHI about what you took away from the conference.
Eligibility & Contest Rules
- This contest is open to students currently enrolled in a forensic science (or a similarly named program) at the undergraduate or graduate levels.
- Applicant must have a public Facebook and Instagram page to allow for sharing of content
- All videos and essays must be submitted by the submission deadline.
- All submissions must be original and not previously published elsewhere
- By submitting an entry and video clip to the contest, each entrant gives ISHI all rights, including copyright, to the entry and express permission to edit and publish the entry in all media listed above without limitation and without any other notice.
