My name is Zoie Efthymia Kartsounas, and I recently graduated from Immaculata University (Class of 2026) with my Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and minors in Biology and Forensics. I am currently enrolled in Cedar Crest College’s Master of Science in Forensic Science program, starting in the Fall of 2026. During my time at Immaculata, I completed the honors program and was awarded the honorary Frank L. Hartleroad Medal for Criminology and Criminal Justice at my graduation. Throughout my academic career, I maintained a 3.8 GPA and conducted extensive research in the forensic science field. My practical experience includes witnessing four full autopsies and conducting observational research at the Montgomery County Detectives Office. I grew up Christian (Lutheran) and hold strong ties to my faith. Having lost many of my loved ones, leaving me with only my parents and siblings, I often see my angels in heaven sending me signs in daily life—such as butterflies or my flowers coming back to life. My uncle’s life was cut short when he passed away in his early 40s, and to know his life ended so abruptly upsets me, but knowing he is with Jesus gives me comfort. Life is a beautiful gift, and everyone deserves that gift; absolutely no one has the authority to take it away. I am pursuing a career in forensic science because I want to help defenseless victims affected by crime, and to bring closure and peace to families experiencing the nightmares that accompany violent offenses. There are numerous methods along with emerging methods used to solve criminal investigations. When I think of life as a whole, experiencing a situation where a forensic scientist is needed is almost certainly someone’s worst nightmare. I want to ease the pain, grief, and agony that families are forced to endure when a loved one's life is stolen. By using science—a foolproof method—I aim to bring justice to victims, hold evil people accountable for their actions, and put them behind bars. No one, of any age, deserves to be the victim of a crime, let alone have their life stolen from them. My faith in God has truly shaped my career goals. Through God's grace, I know I can achieve anything if I apply determination and effort. He is gracious, forgiving, and works in mysterious ways. The angels in heaven who have had their lives stolen by criminals need a voice, and my ultimate goal is to be that voice for them.

My name is Zoie Kartsounas, and my true passion is helping people, a calling deeply rooted in my upbringing. Growing up, I watched my father serve as a state trooper. Seeing him save lives and protect our community inspired me from a young age; I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to the exact same mission- helping people. I believe that being the victim of a crime, and enduring the subsequent grief as a family, is the heaviest burden a person can carry in life. My ultimate goal is to bring justice to fallen victims and offer closure to their grieving families, ensuring that those who commit the unthinkable are held accountable. My ultimate goal is to be a forensic scientist. To turn this passion into a career, I have rigorously pursued every academic and practical resource available. I recently graduated from Immaculata University (Class of 2026) with a 3.8 GPA, majoring in Criminology with double minors in Biology and Forensics—a strategic academic path recommended to me by a family friend in the State Police Forensics Bureau. Alongside my coursework, I graduated from the university's Honors Program, maintain memberships in the National Honor Society of Leadership and Success and the National Honor Society for Criminal Justice, and was awarded the prestigious Frank L. Hartleroad Medal for Criminology and Criminal Justice. Beyond the classroom, I have actively sought out field experiences to prepare for the realities of this profession. I conducted hands-on research at the Montgomery County Detective’s Office and the Chester County Coroner’s Office, where I had the profound educational opportunity to witness four autopsies. Two suicides, one accidental, and one from a motor vehicle accidnet. These experiences solidified my resolve and confirmed that I have the fortitude required for this field. Driven by this momentum, I have been accepted into the Master of Science in Forensic Science program at Cedar Crest College. I am determined to maintain my high academic standards as I transition into graduate school. Throughout my undergraduate journey, I worked as a waitress and a gymnastics coach to remain financially independent. To sustain myself during my graduate studies, I have already secured a coaching position at a gym near Cedar Crest College. Receiving this scholarship would be a dream come true, providing the financial facilitation I need to achieve my goal. With your support, I am ready to take the next step toward becoming a forensic scientist and dedicating my life to fighting crime, delivering justice, and helping families heal.