3 answers
Miyuto
Student
Chico, California
1
Question
Updated
419 views
How can i figure out what i want to do in the forensic field?
I'm a 14 year old high school freshman and recently was assigned a project asking where i see myself in 10 years and it got me thinking. I've had a feeling of wanting to do something involving forensics, like forensic psychology, biology, pathology, etc. so i was thinking maybe CSI? I'm really interested in the investigation of crime scenes and human remains but I've also considered mortuary science.
How do i know what i want to do, and what are some things i should start planning/setting in motion now if i want to get a degree?
Sorry if my question is vague
3 answers
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
107
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Miyuto, this is definitely a field that attracts a certain kind of person and also there are different ways you might enter into this work. The training you choose will point you in a direction, so it is useful to start thinking about this. Forensics may encompass (but not limited to) counseling, forensic psychology, law enforcement, probation, crime scene investigation that is on-site, crime scene photography, being a medical examiner or working with this department in some capacity, and lab work involving testing materials such as crime scene evidence. What you choose depends entirely on your own interests. Do you prefer working directly with people, having a job that involves a variety of tasks and may be out of the office at times, want to work entirely in a scientific or medical lab, be involved in the court system, or assess individuals for psychiatric diagnoses via complex testing batteries and evaluation? Mortuary science is a field that is undergoing a lot of change; niche organizations are being developed with alternative models to the traditional large funeral businesses becoming defunct. As more options for burial become available, there is an opening for professionals to cultivate very creative and personalized services. The American people love the idea of bespoke and novelty offerings. Another route might involve law school or becoming a paralegal. Some types of law help individuals with end-of-life planning and wills. As an investigator with the public defender's office, you will be tasked with interviewing individuals and writing reports to support a court case. What can you imagine (at your young age) doing? See if you can envision yourself in different environments; how does it feel to imagine this? As you continue your studies, look for opportunities to volunteer or intern in a variety of settings. This will also give you information that may inform your decision. This sounds like a great assignment and one you can continue to work on for years to come! Have fun with it!
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
579
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Miyuto,
Good question! It’s awesome that you’re already thinking about your future and exploring interests like forensics and mortuary science. At 14, it’s completely normal not to have it all figured out—your curiosity is the perfect starting point! Here’s how you can start narrowing down your options and preparing for a degree in a forensic-related field.
How to Explore Your Interests in Forensics
1. Learn About Different Forensic Fields
- Forensic Psychology: Focuses on understanding criminal behavior and working in legal systems.
- Forensic Biology: Analyzes DNA, blood, and other evidence to solve crimes.
- Forensic Pathology: Examines human remains to determine causes of death.
- CSI (Crime Scene Investigation): Focuses on collecting and analyzing evidence at crime scenes.
- Mortuary Science: Prepares human remains for burial or cremation, often involving emotional support for families.
Spend time reading or watching documentaries about each field to see what excites you most.
2. Shadow or Volunteer (When Possible)
- Look into programs at local law enforcement agencies, forensic labs, or even funeral homes. Some places may offer opportunities for high school students to shadow professionals or attend workshops.
3. Take Advantage of School Classes
- Focus on science classes like biology and chemistry, as these are foundational for most forensic careers. If your school offers electives like anatomy, psychology, or criminology, take those too!
4. Explore Online Resources and Clubs
- Join school clubs like science, debate, or even a crime-solving club if available.
- Check out free resources like online courses in criminology, forensic science, or psychology through platforms like Udemy, Alison, Coursera or Khan Academy.
5. Get Inspired by Media (with a Critical Eye)
- Shows like "CSI" or "Bones" can spark ideas, but keep in mind that real-life forensics isn’t always as dramatic or fast-paced. Use them as a jumping-off point to research what the job is actually like.
How to Plan for the Future
1. Set Academic Goals
- Focus on keeping a strong GPA, especially in science and math courses.
- Take AP or honors courses in subjects like biology, chemistry, or physics if they’re offered later in high school.
2. Research College Programs
- Look into universities that offer majors in forensic science, criminology, psychology, or mortuary science. Some programs specialize in certain areas, so start a list of schools that interest you.
3. Get Involved Now
- Participate in science fairs, essay contests, or other extracurriculars related to forensics.
- Look for summer programs in forensic science for high school students—many universities and organizations offer them.
4. Keep Your Options Open
- It’s okay to explore multiple paths! For example, if you start studying forensic biology but later find pathology more exciting, you can switch directions.
Figuring Out What You Want
1. Ask Yourself These Questions
- Do I prefer working with people (psychology) or evidence (biology, pathology)?
- Do I like lab work or hands-on investigation?
- Am I comfortable working with human remains?
2. Talk to Professionals
- Reach out to forensic scientists, psychologists, or morticians online or in your community. Ask about their career paths, what they enjoy about their jobs, and what challenges they face.
3. Experiment and Reflect
- Try different activities related to your interests and think about what feels most exciting or fulfilling.
You’re already ahead of the game by thinking about your interests and asking these great questions. The journey to figuring out what you love is all about exploration and growth. Don’t worry about having all the answers now—every step you take, like learning more or trying new experiences, will bring you closer to the right path for you. Keep being curious, and you’ll find your way!
Best wishes!
Good question! It’s awesome that you’re already thinking about your future and exploring interests like forensics and mortuary science. At 14, it’s completely normal not to have it all figured out—your curiosity is the perfect starting point! Here’s how you can start narrowing down your options and preparing for a degree in a forensic-related field.
How to Explore Your Interests in Forensics
1. Learn About Different Forensic Fields
- Forensic Psychology: Focuses on understanding criminal behavior and working in legal systems.
- Forensic Biology: Analyzes DNA, blood, and other evidence to solve crimes.
- Forensic Pathology: Examines human remains to determine causes of death.
- CSI (Crime Scene Investigation): Focuses on collecting and analyzing evidence at crime scenes.
- Mortuary Science: Prepares human remains for burial or cremation, often involving emotional support for families.
Spend time reading or watching documentaries about each field to see what excites you most.
2. Shadow or Volunteer (When Possible)
- Look into programs at local law enforcement agencies, forensic labs, or even funeral homes. Some places may offer opportunities for high school students to shadow professionals or attend workshops.
3. Take Advantage of School Classes
- Focus on science classes like biology and chemistry, as these are foundational for most forensic careers. If your school offers electives like anatomy, psychology, or criminology, take those too!
4. Explore Online Resources and Clubs
- Join school clubs like science, debate, or even a crime-solving club if available.
- Check out free resources like online courses in criminology, forensic science, or psychology through platforms like Udemy, Alison, Coursera or Khan Academy.
5. Get Inspired by Media (with a Critical Eye)
- Shows like "CSI" or "Bones" can spark ideas, but keep in mind that real-life forensics isn’t always as dramatic or fast-paced. Use them as a jumping-off point to research what the job is actually like.
How to Plan for the Future
1. Set Academic Goals
- Focus on keeping a strong GPA, especially in science and math courses.
- Take AP or honors courses in subjects like biology, chemistry, or physics if they’re offered later in high school.
2. Research College Programs
- Look into universities that offer majors in forensic science, criminology, psychology, or mortuary science. Some programs specialize in certain areas, so start a list of schools that interest you.
3. Get Involved Now
- Participate in science fairs, essay contests, or other extracurriculars related to forensics.
- Look for summer programs in forensic science for high school students—many universities and organizations offer them.
4. Keep Your Options Open
- It’s okay to explore multiple paths! For example, if you start studying forensic biology but later find pathology more exciting, you can switch directions.
Figuring Out What You Want
1. Ask Yourself These Questions
- Do I prefer working with people (psychology) or evidence (biology, pathology)?
- Do I like lab work or hands-on investigation?
- Am I comfortable working with human remains?
2. Talk to Professionals
- Reach out to forensic scientists, psychologists, or morticians online or in your community. Ask about their career paths, what they enjoy about their jobs, and what challenges they face.
3. Experiment and Reflect
- Try different activities related to your interests and think about what feels most exciting or fulfilling.
You’re already ahead of the game by thinking about your interests and asking these great questions. The journey to figuring out what you love is all about exploration and growth. Don’t worry about having all the answers now—every step you take, like learning more or trying new experiences, will bring you closer to the right path for you. Keep being curious, and you’ll find your way!
Best wishes!
Angel S
UI/UX Design Aspirant
258
Answers
India
Updated
Angel’s Answer
It's great that you're already thinking about your future! To explore forensic careers, start by researching different areas like forensic psychology, pathology, and CSI. Shadow professionals in these fields, volunteer, or intern at local labs or morgues if possible. Focus on science and psychology courses in high school. For college, look into programs offering forensic science or criminology. Attend relevant workshops and talk to mentors. Stay curious and open to discovering what excites you most!
I'll keep this in mind, thank you!
Miyuto
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