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What important characteristics should I have in order to be a Crime Scene Investigator?
I am enrolled in Rio Linda High School as a Junior taking countless APs. I have excelled in science classes previously and currently but I am not proficient in math. I have a stellar transcript and ranked 44 in the whole school. I have been intrigued by the Criminology and Criminal Justice field ever since I was young but I am a calm person who slightly work under pressure, but I am very observant to small details and maintain a high position.
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4 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Kinjal !
Based on how you've described yourself, you sound like a perfect candidate to become a Crime Scene Investigator. Living in Sacramento, you have good programs nearby !
California State University, Sacramento offers a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice and a Bachelors Degree in the Administration of Justice. These are very large programs. You can also obtain an Associates Degree in Administration of Justice at Sacramento City College for guaranteed transfer to California State University, Sacramento. That makes it very much a smooth path for you having these awesome programs nearby !
Yes, well, math can be involved for this career. Subjects like Calculus, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics and Probability are useful for Crime Scene Investigators. Explore your college of choice's program requirements to see how much or which classes you may need and find out if it's okay to take them in college and not high school only if you want as you said you're not proficient. Also see what courses are required in order to apply for your school of choice.
It does help to have a calm spirit as you stated you have, because you may have to become a police officer to get promoted to being a Crime Scene Investigator. Do more exploring and try to know that your education and your passion to do the work will make you suited for this career. Everyone brings a little something special to their work and you will, too !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Based on how you've described yourself, you sound like a perfect candidate to become a Crime Scene Investigator. Living in Sacramento, you have good programs nearby !
California State University, Sacramento offers a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice and a Bachelors Degree in the Administration of Justice. These are very large programs. You can also obtain an Associates Degree in Administration of Justice at Sacramento City College for guaranteed transfer to California State University, Sacramento. That makes it very much a smooth path for you having these awesome programs nearby !
Yes, well, math can be involved for this career. Subjects like Calculus, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics and Probability are useful for Crime Scene Investigators. Explore your college of choice's program requirements to see how much or which classes you may need and find out if it's okay to take them in college and not high school only if you want as you said you're not proficient. Also see what courses are required in order to apply for your school of choice.
It does help to have a calm spirit as you stated you have, because you may have to become a police officer to get promoted to being a Crime Scene Investigator. Do more exploring and try to know that your education and your passion to do the work will make you suited for this career. Everyone brings a little something special to their work and you will, too !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Updated
Isida’s Answer
Hello Kinjal,
Your inquiry is right up my alley! You're the perfect mentor for me, but my specialty is economics. From my international perspective, because I live in the Balkans and have experience, I would recommend using your skills in another profession for example Bussines Analyst or Accountant. Personally, my background and experience are in finance and I would say that a business analyst's mind is observant of small details and checking, have skills in data collection & investigation.
How does a budding cartel boss succeed (and survive) in the 300 billion illegal drug business? By learning from the best, of course. From creating brand value to fine-tuning customer service, the folks running cartels have been attentive students to the strategy and tactics used by big corporations such as Coca-Cola or Walmart.
Do more exploring, like personality tests for example Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or DISC Assessment.
I hope it helps!
May god bless you.
Your inquiry is right up my alley! You're the perfect mentor for me, but my specialty is economics. From my international perspective, because I live in the Balkans and have experience, I would recommend using your skills in another profession for example Bussines Analyst or Accountant. Personally, my background and experience are in finance and I would say that a business analyst's mind is observant of small details and checking, have skills in data collection & investigation.
How does a budding cartel boss succeed (and survive) in the 300 billion illegal drug business? By learning from the best, of course. From creating brand value to fine-tuning customer service, the folks running cartels have been attentive students to the strategy and tactics used by big corporations such as Coca-Cola or Walmart.
Do more exploring, like personality tests for example Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or DISC Assessment.
I hope it helps!
May god bless you.
Updated
Dr’s Answer
It sounds like you're off to an awesome start with your academic drive and interest in criminology! Based on your question and goals, here are a few important traits and tips for being a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI):
1. **Attention to Detail**: You mentioned you're very observant, which is perfect for this career! CSIs need to spot tiny clues at crime scenes that others might miss. So, your ability to notice the small stuff is a huge advantage.
2. **Calm Under Pressure**: Even though you said you slightly struggle under pressure, this career still requires you to stay composed in chaotic situations. In a CSI role, things can get intense quickly, but your calm demeanor will serve you well in handling high-stress moments.
3. **Strong Communication Skills**: You'll need to be able to communicate clearly and professionally, both when documenting evidence and working with law enforcement. Being able to explain your findings in an easy-to-understand way is crucial.
4. **Analytical Thinking**: Your strength in science will really help here. CSIs often have to piece together evidence and draw conclusions from what they find at a crime scene. It’s all about putting the puzzle together and seeing things from different angles.
5. **Mathematical Knowledge**: Although math isn't your strongest subject, don’t worry too much. Basic math and statistics can still be very helpful in certain areas of forensic analysis. In some cases, it's necessary to understand things like trajectory analysis, but you can always get help from specialized experts or tech tools once you're in the field.
6. **Patience**: Crime scene investigation can involve a lot of waiting—waiting for lab results, forensics reports, and so on. Being patient and methodical is a huge asset in this line of work.
Lastly, since you're already excelling in science, you might want to take some forensic science or criminology electives once you're in college to deepen your understanding. And don’t forget that many CSIs start off in law enforcement, so be prepared for some career flexibility and growth.
You're already on the right path, so just keep building those skills and stay curious about the field. You've got this! 💪
1. **Attention to Detail**: You mentioned you're very observant, which is perfect for this career! CSIs need to spot tiny clues at crime scenes that others might miss. So, your ability to notice the small stuff is a huge advantage.
2. **Calm Under Pressure**: Even though you said you slightly struggle under pressure, this career still requires you to stay composed in chaotic situations. In a CSI role, things can get intense quickly, but your calm demeanor will serve you well in handling high-stress moments.
3. **Strong Communication Skills**: You'll need to be able to communicate clearly and professionally, both when documenting evidence and working with law enforcement. Being able to explain your findings in an easy-to-understand way is crucial.
4. **Analytical Thinking**: Your strength in science will really help here. CSIs often have to piece together evidence and draw conclusions from what they find at a crime scene. It’s all about putting the puzzle together and seeing things from different angles.
5. **Mathematical Knowledge**: Although math isn't your strongest subject, don’t worry too much. Basic math and statistics can still be very helpful in certain areas of forensic analysis. In some cases, it's necessary to understand things like trajectory analysis, but you can always get help from specialized experts or tech tools once you're in the field.
6. **Patience**: Crime scene investigation can involve a lot of waiting—waiting for lab results, forensics reports, and so on. Being patient and methodical is a huge asset in this line of work.
Lastly, since you're already excelling in science, you might want to take some forensic science or criminology electives once you're in college to deepen your understanding. And don’t forget that many CSIs start off in law enforcement, so be prepared for some career flexibility and growth.
You're already on the right path, so just keep building those skills and stay curious about the field. You've got this! 💪
Updated
Kangana’s Answer
To be a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI), there are several important characteristics that will serve you well, especially considering your strengths and interests in science and criminology:
Attention to Detail – Your ability to be observant is crucial for a CSI. Crime scenes often have small, subtle evidence that must be carefully documented and analyzed to solve a case.
Critical Thinking & Analytical Skills – CSI work requires you to analyze evidence, make deductions, and think critically about the information presented. This is where your science background will help you excel, even if math is a challenge.
Calm Under Pressure – Since you mentioned being calm under pressure, this is a great asset. Crime scenes can be intense and high-pressure, so maintaining composure is key to doing your job effectively and ensuring accurate results.
Strong Communication Skills – You’ll need to communicate clearly with law enforcement, attorneys, and colleagues, both in writing and in person. Being able to document findings thoroughly and testify in court can be part of the job.
Technical Proficiency – While math isn’t your strength, CSI roles require technical skills, particularly in using tools for evidence collection and analysis. You can always build your technical proficiency over time with training and experience.
Dedication and Patience – Investigations can take time, and sometimes results aren’t immediate. A strong sense of dedication and patience will help you persevere through lengthy investigations.
Ethical Judgment & Integrity – CSIs must maintain the highest level of ethics and integrity because the work you do can impact a criminal investigation, potentially involving people’s lives and freedom.
With your keen observational skills and calm demeanor, you’re well on your way to excelling in this field. Would you like any advice on how to start preparing for a CSI career in high school or in college?
Attention to Detail – Your ability to be observant is crucial for a CSI. Crime scenes often have small, subtle evidence that must be carefully documented and analyzed to solve a case.
Critical Thinking & Analytical Skills – CSI work requires you to analyze evidence, make deductions, and think critically about the information presented. This is where your science background will help you excel, even if math is a challenge.
Calm Under Pressure – Since you mentioned being calm under pressure, this is a great asset. Crime scenes can be intense and high-pressure, so maintaining composure is key to doing your job effectively and ensuring accurate results.
Strong Communication Skills – You’ll need to communicate clearly with law enforcement, attorneys, and colleagues, both in writing and in person. Being able to document findings thoroughly and testify in court can be part of the job.
Technical Proficiency – While math isn’t your strength, CSI roles require technical skills, particularly in using tools for evidence collection and analysis. You can always build your technical proficiency over time with training and experience.
Dedication and Patience – Investigations can take time, and sometimes results aren’t immediate. A strong sense of dedication and patience will help you persevere through lengthy investigations.
Ethical Judgment & Integrity – CSIs must maintain the highest level of ethics and integrity because the work you do can impact a criminal investigation, potentially involving people’s lives and freedom.
With your keen observational skills and calm demeanor, you’re well on your way to excelling in this field. Would you like any advice on how to start preparing for a CSI career in high school or in college?