Get Career-Ready with: Hannah Lanham '24, Forensic Science Major

Meet Hannah Lanham '24

Major/Program: Forensic Science
Minor: Biological Sciences and Chemistry
Hometown: Belle Vernon, Pa.
High School: Belle Vernon Area High School
Dream Job: Forensic autopsy technician

"At Point Park, my professors have hands-on experience in their field of study. They provide real-world examples to help us make meaningful connections to key concepts. I was drawn to Point Park for the internship opportunities offered, as well as the high percentage of students who get a job directly after graduation."

Hannah Lanham '24

What drew you to the forensic science program at Point Park University?

When looking for schools that offer my degree, I was also looking to see if the professors had any experience in the field or a related field. At Point Park, my professors have hands-on experience in their field of study. They provide real-world examples to help us make meaningful connections to key concepts. I was drawn to Point Park for the internship opportunities offered, as well as the high percentage of students who get a job directly after graduation.

Who is your favorite professor and why?

My favorite professor on campus hands down is Edward Strimlan, M.D., associate professor and coordinator of the forensic science program. I have taken courses with him at least once a semester since the spring semester of freshman year, sometimes having class with him twice a day, and he never fails to amaze me with his stories from the field. Before teaching at Point Park, he worked with a medical examiner's office and in crime scene investigations. He brings an extraordinary breadth of experience that he's able to talk about and teach every day. He is an extremely intelligent man and clearly takes pride in what he teaches his students.

What's the coolest course you've taken so far, and what did you enjoy about it?

The coolest course I have taken would definitely be Death Scene Investigation! While all of the forensic courses at Point Park are extremely interesting, that one had the most hands-on coursework. We worked in the CSI House, a crime scene lab on campus that resembles a house, and investigated different crime scenes, applying what we learned in class. One of the final assignments was to create our own crime scene, photograph it and provide a back story and scene sketch.

@pointparku What does it look like to get career-ready at Point Park? Forensic Science major Hannah Lanham can show you! Check out the full story at pointpark.edu #GetReadyWithMe #GRWM #PointParkU #PointParkUniversity #ForensicScience #Forensics ♬ original sound - Point Park Univ.

What do you love about being in Downtown Pittsburgh?

I love being in Downtown Pittsburgh because there is always something fun to do. My roommates and I are always taking advantage of what's around us, whether it's a simple walk to Point State Park or taking the bus to a cultural attraction.

How did you adjust to living in the city after growing up in a rural area?

Adjusting to the city was a lot different and easier than I had anticipated! Growing up in a small town away from the city, I hadn’t spent much time in Pittsburgh before coming to Point Park. The adjustment was fun because I was moving from a quiet town to a bustling downtown. I love going out to lunch in Market Square in between classes or taking the bus over to Oakland to visit the Carnegie Museums!

What advice do you have for incoming students?

Build professional relationships with your professors. It is easy to just blend in and become another body in the classroom, but making yourself known with your professors is academically beneficial. It's intimidating coming from high school to a college campus, especially if you come from a smaller school like I did, but the small class sizes at Point Park make it so much easier to ask for and receive the help you need. Professors take time out of their day to help you with anything you have a question about. Building these relationships with your professors will open you up to valuable opportunities outside of the classroom, like select internships or work-studies on campus!

Get Career-Ready with: Hannah Lanham '24, Forensic Science Major Student Profile