Nicole, a recipient of several awards and scholarships, made the most out of her five-year plan to receive a Master of Science degree in Forensic Science.
Nicole Kibler, a member of the freshman Honors Program, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and, as part of Stevenson’s 5-year B.S. to M.S. program, a master’s degree in Forensic Science.
As a recipient of the Presidential Scholarship, Founders’ Scholarship, and Excellence Award, Nicole has benefited from her Stevenson experience.
“When I first began searching for a college, I wanted to stay far away from small class sizes, but I have ultimately come to realize that it is one of the things I love most about Stevenson and the Honors program,” she says. “When professors and peers are able to get to know you, it makes you more accountable for your performance and gives you the opportunity to ask questions, get help, and learn material on a deeper level that huge lecture classes might not afford. In addition, my freshman chemistry class is working in pairs to develop original research projects, which we will present at the end of the semester as part of our Honors designation, this is an awesome way to prepare us for future research in our respective fields.”
Nicole also appreciates being invited to attend career networking events. “From job fairs to Forensic Science career panels, Stevenson ensures that, regardless of grade level, you can be involved and connected early on.” In addition, she connects directly with her department head and current and future professors through weekly talks, board games, and other interactions. These “opportunities unique to Stevenson Chemistry and Biochemistry majors really show how much the faculty cares about their students.”
As for her choice to attend Stevenson, Nicole says, “After living in the same small New Jersey town all my life, I wanted something different when choosing my college. Deciding to leave the comfort and security of the only place I have ever known was scary, but the payoff has already been worth it. I have been blessed with the opportunity to attend a school filled with so many different types of people, people I would never have gotten the chance to meet otherwise. I am so excited for all of the ways that Stevenson will shape my life in the coming years.”
