Finding Her Path in Forensic Science

“I loved that I could earn two degrees in five years,” she said. “And once I visited, I knew this was where I wanted to be.”

The recent forensic science graduate will begin her role this summer as an Associate Scientist II at QPS Holdings, where she’ll focus on method development in a clinical research setting and be a part of work that will improve people’s care. 

"I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned," she said.

Melanie’s hands-on experiences gave her the confidence to step into her career after graduation. Through lab work, internships and professional development opportunities, she developed both technical skills and resilience.

“Even when I made mistakes in the lab, I learned how to fix them,” she said. “That’s something my future employer really valued.”

Melanie entered Duquesne knowing she wanted a career in forensic science—but it was the program’s structure that helped her truly understand the field. Through courses taught by professionals with real-world experience in areas like toxicology, arson investigation and serology, she saw firsthand how science connects to the legal system.

“They showed us how forensic science impacts real cases and courtrooms,” she said. “It made me realize how the work we do can truly help people.”

A defining moment came during a forensic chemistry lab, where Melanie was tasked with developing a method to detect a drug in a biological sample. The process involved trial and error, troubleshooting and persistence—but it ultimately built her confidence.

“That experience really prepared me for what I’m doing next,” she said. “Now I’m going into a role focused on method development, and I feel ready for it.”

Beyond the classroom, internships helped expand her understanding of career paths. With guidance from her research advisor, Matthew Regentin, Melanie secured an opportunity with the ATF, working on method development related to post-blast explosive analysis.

“Professor Regentin was always there to help—whether it was research, internships or career advice. Having someone who’s invested in your success makes a big difference.”

One of the most meaningful parts of Melanie’s experience was the community she built along the way.

“When you spend five years with the same group of people, you become really close,” she said. “Those friendships will stay with me for life.”

Experiences like studying abroad in London and Scotland with her cohort only strengthened those bonds, creating memories that extended far beyond the classroom.

She also credits Duquesne’s career resources—like mock interviews and the Career Center—for helping her prepare for the transition from student to professional.  Melanie’s journey was shaped by access—to mentorship, internships and opportunities that made her goals feel attainable.

Faculty with real-world experience helped bridge the gap between classroom learning and career readiness, while internships—like her time with the ATF—gave her the chance to work independently and build confidence. That experience even led to presenting her research at the 2025 ASMS Asilomar Conference in California—her first professional conference.

As she prepares for her next chapter, Melanie reflects on how much she’s grown—not just academically, but personally.

“I got to meet scientists I really look up to. It showed me what’s possible.”

Moving away from home pushed her out of her comfort zone, but it also helped her build independence and create a strong support system.

“I built a family here,” she said.

Her advice to future students is simple: take advantage of every opportunity.

“Try new things, even if they’re outside your comfort zone,” she said. “Some of my best experiences came from that.”