As a high school student, Rose Rudich ’27 searched the country for the right college. The resident of Decatur, Georgia, sought a school that was small enough that she could receive personal attention to address her learning challenges and had a strong forensic science program. She toured Lasell before she submitted her application—and essentially fell in love at first sight.

Last summer the forensic science major enjoyed a life-changing Connected Learning experience when she received a $3,000 stipend from Lasell to pursue an unpaid internship at her local police department. Rose has not once regretted moving more than 1,000 miles away from home to attend college. Of Lasell, she reports, “I say this often: I couldn’t have landed at a better school.”

Why did you decide to major in forensic science?
I first became interested in forensic science when I was about 12 years old and watched Forensic Files with my mom (Rebecca). I enjoyed the nitty-gritty of the evidence and processes. And then I found out that it was something that I could study and pursue as a career.

Did you get to explore that further in your summer internship?
My internship with the City of Decatur Police Department was a great experience. The most memorable moment came when I went with a detective to process a stolen car that had been recovered. I was able to apply skills from my classes at Lasell to a real-life crime scene by dusting for and lifting fingerprint impressions from various surfaces of the vehicle and searching for other items of evidence inside the car. The internship also allowed me to make many connections, including with the Atlanta Division of the FBI, that will help me in my career.

Which classes/professors have been your favorites so far?
I really enjoyed two classes I took my first year: Principles of Biology with Professor Haley Garrison and Writing 101 with Professor Sara Large. I have no idea how it happened, but they became two people who I can talk to for hours about anything and everything.

You’re a peer tutor on campus; do you think your own learning challenges make you more effective in that role?
Yes! Tutors need to be able to pivot because everyone learns differently. Since I have my own struggles, it gives me a better understanding of students who might be dealing with the same issues. I can appreciate what they might be going through.

What activities are you involved in on campus?
Out of class, I am secretary of the Creative Writing Club and a peer tutor, but the role that really defines me is vice president of academic affairs for the Student Government Association. I serve as a bridge between students and faculty regarding academics. It leads to opportunities to interact with and assist many different people on campus.

Photo by Todd Dionne