Alumni of the Month - May 2025
Mia Abbott - University Lecturer at University of Staffordshire
Mia looks back fondly on her time at Central Academy, where she found a space to develop her childhood love of Science. Mia also enjoyed her time beyond the Science labs and was able to approach her other subjects with resilience by finding a way to successfully apply her newly gained knowledge. She enjoyed using her Mathematical skills in daily life and used Photography lessons as a way to express her creativity without needing to physically draw. Helped by her knowledgeable and enthusiastic History teacher, Mr Hurst, Mia also developed an appreciation for the way in which the events of the past have shaped the world we live in today. Specifically, Mia was interested in the changes and advancements in medicine through time.
Mia’s academic ambition and resilience helped her to overcome challenges in subjects such as Art and English Language, where greater subjectivity and creative freedom meant that success was less rigidly defined than her preferred subjects – Maths and Science. By honing her research skills, Mia was able to find success in these subjects by drawing inspiration from artists and writers around her.
Determined to continue her academic success, Mia used her passion for Chemistry and Biology, and her interest in problem solving, to complete a master’s degree in forensic science. The complexities of her course allowed Mia to realise quickly that the process of forensics is far more intricate and multi-layered than fictional TV programmes may suggest. She thoroughly enjoyed studying the various fields within forensic science, from finger mark identification to gunshot residue analysis. During her studies, she undertook a placement with Staffordshire Police where she was able to apply her knowledge to real world events. It was during this time that Mia made the decision to continue her academic studies further by undertaking a PhD.
Between finishing her degree and starting her PhD, Mia had the opportunity to become a member of the drug analysis team at a private forensic provider. Her position as a laboratory technician gave her further insight the field of forensic science as well as experience of working as part of a large organisation.
Having completed her doctorate, Mia is now a lecturer for the University of Staffordshire, with a specific interest in the fast-moving field of drug research. Her current role requires strong communication skills in order to successfully engage the wide range of visitors and students she meets. It is essential that Mia is able to adapt her language use and differentiate the delivery of her knowledge as she may be interacting with people of any age, from primary school visitors to mature students decades older than her.
As a teacher, Mia encourages her own students to be analytical and evaluative in their work whilst also focusing on the importance of critical thinking skills.
Her message to our current students is: Your teachers will make a significant impact on the person you will become. Don’t hesitate to ask them questions when you need help – and remember to thank them when they do!