For Tymicka, a 2023 graduate of Deakin’s Bachelor of Forensic Science and Bachelor of Criminology, curiosity and a passion for social justice have shaped her career journey. Now part of the Victorian Government Graduate Program, she’s applying her investigative mindset to real-world challenges, while continuing to build critical skills for the future.
‘I’ve always had an interest in the field, I have a strong sense of social justice and was drawn to forensics by TV shows like Criminal Minds,’ said Tymicka.
Studying across Deakin’s Waurn Ponds and Burwood campuses, both online and in-person, Tymicka developed critical thinking and investigative skills. ‘I love the investigative side of forensics. On campus we had a practical crime scene that we would analyse as a team, requiring us to use our critical thinking skills,’ she said.
After graduating, Tymicka recognised the importance of building professional networks and developing practical skills for her future career. The Victorian Government’s Graduate Program offered exactly that, with three diverse placements over 12 months.
‘I had read position descriptions for roles in the forensics field and recognised that there were practical skills like case management that I would need in the future,’ she said.
‘I hoped that the program might also help me figure out what sort of roles I might want to do in government or in the forensics field.’
As part of the program’s pathway for First Peoples, Tymicka received tailored support, including one-on-one mentoring and connections.
‘When I saw the position description for my role, I thought it was a great opportunity to learn more about Country and culture.’
Throughout the program, Tymicka gained hands-on experience across the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, the Department of Education, and the Department of Health. Her responsibilities ranged from policy advice and developing resources to reporting, correspondence, and preparing briefings.
She also took part in learning and development workshops, including executive mentoring. ‘I loved the in-person training sessions, especially the training focused on policy development and presentation skills,’ she said.
‘The training sessions also gave us a chance to catch up with other grads to check in and see how they were going.’
Reflecting on her graduate year, Tymicka is proud of how she embraced every opportunity:
‘I said yes to every opportunity that came up, seeing everything as a chance to learn,’ she said.
For anyone considering the Victorian Government Graduate Program, Tymicka has some advice: