(Norcross, GA) It’s a different type of crime scene, one where like-minded students converge to discuss the latest issues, news and trends pertaining to one of the fastest growing professions – forensic science. And it all takes place online.
Starting as a grassroots initiative, Ashworth University’s Student Forum is now host to its latest student organization, the Ashworth Forensic Science Club (FSC). Initially inspired by the new and rapidly evolving branch of Computer Forensics, FSC is open to like-minded students wanting to share information on the latest issues, news and trends in Forensics and related fields. Within the first 30 days, the Club has boasted more than 16 active members.
Fueled by mainstream exposure from television programs like C.S.I. and highly televised, high-profile court cases, interest in Forensic Science as a profession has grown. This exposure has contributed to impressive employment projections -- +30.7% by 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
To meet the demand, schools like Ashworth University offers programs in criminal justice, security services, private investigation and paralegal studies. As such, FSC should have no shortage in cultivating a vibrant membership base. The Club is open to students pursuing an Ashworth Career, Associate, Bachelor’s or Master’s program in these and several related fields, as well as enthusiasts and alumni.
“As a student, I have really enjoyed getting to know my classmates on the Ashworth Forum,” said Betty Ray-Mydland, Ashworth Criminal Justice student and FSC charter member. “Through FSC, I’m really looking forward to sharing with others in my profession.”
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Ashworth administration was pleased to discover this grassroots initiative on the Student Forum. As a distance learning institution, Ashworth University, along with Ashworth Career School and Ashworth High School, operates without many of the trappings associated with the traditional brick and mortar school, i.e., classrooms, sports, etc. However, through its development of social communities and active partnering with administration and students, Ashworth is working to minimize that gap.
“Our students represent a growing segment of the population attempting to manage career and family as well as their education. They are drawn to our programs because they are flexible, self-paced and fit into their existing lives,” said Jon Bouffler, Ashworth Executive Vice President. “In spite of not physically attending classes, our students express interest in many of the trappings associated with a traditional school environment – which includes connecting with Ashworth and fellow students with similar interests. These specialty organizations are a great reflection of our students’ commitment to the school.”
“Developing online communities is a natural for distance education students. However ours is much more that a social site,” Bouffler added. “It’s the student union, the school library, the career counseling center and much more all rolled into one. Through our online communities and the Student Forum we can give them a well-rounded experience.”
The Forensic Science Club is just one of several student-driven initiatives that developed within the Ashworth online communities. To date, students recently established a student newspaper, identified the school’s first mascot as well as establishing online fraternities and sororities.
