Olivia Daffy found more than a degree in Criminology at UTS

Fascinated by the psychology behind crime

Olivia's interest in criminology started long before university. Like many people, crime documentaries and television shows first sparked her curiosity, but she quickly realised there was much more beneath the surface.

"I've always been interested in the psychology of crime and why people do what they do," she says.

"I knew I wanted to study something with variety, and I wanted a career where I could help people. Criminology gave me both."

Rather than seeing crime as simply breaking the law, Olivia has enjoyed exploring the social, psychological, and environmental factors that influence offending behaviour.

"I've learned that crime changes over time because society changes. Understanding why crime happens is just as important as understanding what happened."

Learning that goes beyond the textbook

One of the biggest surprises for Olivia has been how much she enjoys studying.

"I genuinely lose track of time doing assignments because I find the research so interesting," she says.

"I was so ready to finish high school, but at university I've discovered what it's like to really enjoy learning."

UTS's flexible teaching approach has helped her develop a study routine that works. She watches lectures before class, then uses tutorials to discuss ideas with classmates and academics.

"The professors genuinely want you to succeed. They really care that you understand the content, and they'll explain concepts in different ways until they click."

For Olivia, one first-year subject stood above the rest.

"Introduction to Criminology completely changed the way I thought about crime," she says.

"Learning how theories of crime have evolved over time was fascinating. It wasn't just memorising information. We were challenged to think critically about why crime exists and how society shapes our understanding of it."

Putting learning into practice

Alongside her criminology studies, Olivia also completes practical laboratory classes through the forensic science component of her degree.

"The labs are incredibly hands-on," she says.

"You're applying what you've learned in lectures straight away, and the demonstrators are always there to help if you don't understand something. They never make you feel silly for asking questions."

That supportive environment has made a lasting impression.

"Everyone I've been taught by is passionate about what they do, and that really comes across in the way they teach."

Finding a community at UTS

Moving away from home at 17 was a daunting step, but Olivia quickly found her place at university.

She now serves as Secretary of the UTS Criminology Society (Crim Soc), helping organise networking events and guest speakers for fellow students.

"I wanted to give other students the same opportunities that inspired me in first year," she says.

One event in particular left a lasting impact. An Australian Federal Police specialist presented on geospatial profiling and demonstrated how data can be used to solve real criminal investigations.

"I'd never heard of geospatial profiling before, and it completely opened my eyes to another career path. Experiences like that show you just how many possibilities exist in criminology."

Outside the classroom, Olivia has also built friendships through sport, working as an umpire for UTS social netball and making the most of campus life.

"The campus is really welcoming. You naturally get to know people through classes, group activities, and clubs. It didn't take long before I started recognising familiar faces around campus."

Looking ahead to a career with impact

Although Olivia is only in her second year, she's already thinking about the many directions her career could take.

Crime scene investigation, forensic medicine, criminal profiling, rehabilitation, and even international policing all appeal to her.

"I'd love to work in crime scene investigation for a while, but I also think working overseas would be an incredible opportunity."

She hopes to one day combine her criminology expertise with her French language skills by working with Interpol in France.

Closer to home, she's equally passionate about supporting people within the justice system.

"I'd also love to work with incarcerated people and help them build the skills they need before leaving prison."

"For me, it's about making a difference in different ways throughout my career."

Advice for future students

Looking back, Olivia says taking the leap to move away from home and study at UTS was one of the best decisions she's made.

"Go for it," she says.

"The support is fantastic, you'll meet people who are passionate about the same things you are, and the professors genuinely care about helping you succeed."

For anyone considering studying criminology, she believes curiosity is the best place to start.

"If you're passionate about understanding people and making a difference, you'll love it."

Olivia sums up her experience at UTS in three simple words:

"Daunting, exciting, and fulfilling."