For Kayla McCrea ’27, the path to forensic science began with a high school tour of the New Jersey State Police (NJSP). Emboldened by that early glimpse into the field, she came to Franklin & Marshall College to build the expertise and skills necessary to return as a toxicology unit intern — a feat she accomplished this summer.

“I have been interested in forensic science for a while, which motivated me to learn more about the field,” she said. “At F&M, I built upon that interest through coursework that strengthened my scientific knowledge and prepared me to apply those concepts during my internship.”

McCrea, a double major in chemistry and biochemistry and molecular biology, credits F&M for equipping her with a complete toolkit of skills to excel in her role.

“My F&M education provided me with a strong foundation in scientific instrumentation, methods, and techniques, allowing me to observe how these concepts are applied in a professional setting,” she said. “My coursework also strengthened my communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, enabling me to contribute effectively throughout my internship.”

Kayla McCrea ’27

Major: Chemistry and biochemistry and molecular biology

Minor: Applied mathematics

Summer Experience: Toxicology Unit Intern with New Jersey State Police Office of Forensic Sciences in Hamilton, N.J.

Funding Support: Barbara Mattleman '79 and Dean Kaplan Internship Fund

Hometown: Allentown, N.J.

What type of work are you doing with the Office of Forensic Sciences?

My project involved validating additional drugs to be included in the lab's general toxicology screen. I also worked on determining whether these drugs could reliably be detected with the goal of expanding the toxicology screening capabilities.

How did your F&M studies or personal interests impact your decision to do this internship?

I have been interested in forensic science for a while, which motivated me to learn more about the field. In high school, I had the opportunity to tour the NJSP Office of Forensic Sciences where I gained insight to the wide range of careers forensic science has to offer. At F&M, I built upon that interest through coursework that strengthened my scientific knowledge and prepared me to apply those concepts during my internship. The encouragement I received from my professors also gave me the confidence to pursue this opportunity.

What has been the most fascinating aspect of your experience so far?

The most fascinating aspect of my internship has been gaining insight into the many disciplines within forensic science. Although I spent most of my time in the toxicology unit, I also had the opportunity to observe other units and learn how each contributes to the field.

How do you feel your F&M education prepared you for this opportunity?

My F&M education provided me with a strong foundation in scientific instrumentation, methods, and techniques, allowing me to observe how these concepts are applied in a professional setting. My coursework also strengthened my communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, enabling me to contribute effectively throughout my internship.

How did you locate this internship?

I first learned about this internship while I was in high school through a family friend who worked in another unit within the NJSP Office of Forensic Sciences. Because the program is only open to rising college juniors and seniors, I kept the opportunity in mind until I could apply.

How has this internship helped you along your chosen career path?

This internship has given me a new perspective on career opportunities and introduced me to paths I had not previously considered. While I am still figuring out my long-term career goals, this experience provided valuable insight into the field of forensic science and helped me better understand what a career as a forensic scientist can look like.

Why did you choose F&M?

I chose F&M because of its strong academic reputation and the supportive community I experienced during my visit to campus. I saw the close relationships between students and faculty, as well as the many opportunities available for career development. Athletics (women’s basketball) also played an important role in my decision. When I visited, I met a group of teammates and coaches who supported and encouraged each other both on and off the court. I knew F&M was a place that would allow me to grow and thrive as a student-athlete.