2 answers
Cessie
Student
Saginaw, Michigan
1
Question
Asked
567 views
Ive always been interested in working in some type of lab setting but im not sure if i should pursue it as a career. Im currently 20 years old and just graduated with a 2 year degree in general studies.
[Question 1]
🤔 First question for all you forensic experts out there: What kind of degree did you pursue to become a forensic scientist or lab scientist? Bachelor's, Master's, Ph.D.? Let me know! 🎓
[Question 2]
📚 Next up, tell me about the classes you took during your studies. Any specific courses that stood out and helped shape your career in forensic science? 📖
[Question 3]
💸 School can be expensive! How did you manage to pay for your education? Scholarships, grants, part-time jobs? Share your tips for aspiring forensic scientists navigating the financial side of education. 💰
[Question 4]
🔍 Now, let's talk study advice! Science classes can be tough. Any advice for those who struggle with science courses? How did you overcome challenges in your studies? 📝
[Closing]
🙌 Thank you so much for sharing your insights, forensic and lab experts!
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2 answers
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
750
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Cessie thank you for reaching out and asking your question. It's wonderful to hear about your interest in working in a lab setting, and I hope that I can provide some insights into your questions. While I'm not a personal work as a forensic scientist nor do I work in a lab setting, I am going to do my best.
• Question 1 – The journey to becoming a forensic scientist or lab scientist typically begins with a Bachelor's degree. However, for certain specialized or research-oriented roles, a Master's or even a Ph.D. might be necessary. The educational requirements can fluctuate depending on the specific route you choose within the realm of forensic science.
• Question 2 – Forensic science studies encompass a wide array of subjects. Core courses usually involve biology, chemistry, forensic chemistry, forensic biology, criminalistics, and evidence analysis. The standout courses for individuals in this field might differ, but those that focus on forensic techniques, lab methods, and case analysis have proven to be particularly beneficial.
• Question 3 – The financial aspect of education is a common hurdle, but future forensic scientists often employ a mix of strategies. These can encompass scholarships, grants, part-time jobs, and student loans. It's wise to investigate scholarship opportunities in the field, including those provided by universities, professional bodies, and government entities. Also, part-time work or internships in related areas can offer both invaluable experience and monetary aid.
• Question 4 – It's true that science courses can be demanding, but there are ways to tackle these challenges. Cultivate good study habits, maintain organization, and don't hesitate to ask for help. Form study groups for collaborative learning, make use of resources like textbooks and online materials, and leverage tutoring services provided by your school. Engage in problem-solving and practical exercises to solidify theoretical knowledge.
Cessie, always remember that your determination and love for the subject are key drivers of your success. Don't hesitate to seek advice from professors, field professionals, and career advisors, as their insights can be extremely beneficial.
• Question 1 – The journey to becoming a forensic scientist or lab scientist typically begins with a Bachelor's degree. However, for certain specialized or research-oriented roles, a Master's or even a Ph.D. might be necessary. The educational requirements can fluctuate depending on the specific route you choose within the realm of forensic science.
• Question 2 – Forensic science studies encompass a wide array of subjects. Core courses usually involve biology, chemistry, forensic chemistry, forensic biology, criminalistics, and evidence analysis. The standout courses for individuals in this field might differ, but those that focus on forensic techniques, lab methods, and case analysis have proven to be particularly beneficial.
• Question 3 – The financial aspect of education is a common hurdle, but future forensic scientists often employ a mix of strategies. These can encompass scholarships, grants, part-time jobs, and student loans. It's wise to investigate scholarship opportunities in the field, including those provided by universities, professional bodies, and government entities. Also, part-time work or internships in related areas can offer both invaluable experience and monetary aid.
• Question 4 – It's true that science courses can be demanding, but there are ways to tackle these challenges. Cultivate good study habits, maintain organization, and don't hesitate to ask for help. Form study groups for collaborative learning, make use of resources like textbooks and online materials, and leverage tutoring services provided by your school. Engage in problem-solving and practical exercises to solidify theoretical knowledge.
Cessie, always remember that your determination and love for the subject are key drivers of your success. Don't hesitate to seek advice from professors, field professionals, and career advisors, as their insights can be extremely beneficial.
Thank you, Patrick for the advice.
Cessie
Karin P.
Lecturer
376
Answers
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Cessie,
"Some type" of lab setting can be a lot of things: chemistry, biology, environmental science, geology, chemical engineering, materials science, physics, mechanical engineering, and many more.
If you know that you want to go into forensics you can study forensics e.g. at these colleges:
https://www.forensicscolleges.com/usa
www.bachelorstudies.com/bsc/forensic-science/usa/amp
https://www.aafs.org/search/schools
Check out the websites of schools you would consider. It will tell you what the curriculum is.
If you are not sure about taking on science, check out related majors like criminal justice or forensic psychology. If you are interested in coding, computer science or data science could also be interesting options.
Your first stop for funding your studies is the financial aid office of your college. Next look for outside scholarships. There are need-based and merit-based scholarships. Some are for specific demographics only. You can check if your city or your state has any scholarships. Your parents or guardians might work for a company that has scholarships. Some professional societies also have scholarships.
You can search for forensics scholarships e.g. here:
https://www.forensicscolleges.com/blog/resources/forensics-scholarships
https://www.collegescholarships.com/major-degree/forensics-scholarships
Applying for scholarships takes time and effort. Check out interesting scholarships and what the requirements and deadlines are. Often times some kind of community service/volunteer work is required/desired. They also like to see some leadership potential. So, look at your extracurriculars and add what's missing. If your school has a science club, join. Find opportunities to intern or job shadow. You might not be able to get into a crime lab, but a chemistry lab is fine.
Science fairs are a good way to get some research experience and demonstrate interest, commitment, creativity etc. Does your school participate? Can you participate on your own?
Check out information here:
http://msef.sciencefair.info/
A forensics-themed project would look good on your resume for college admission and for scholarship applications. An award at state level could even get you a nice financial aid package from your college of choice.
I hope this helps! You have some reading to do. Google is your friend!
Good luck!
KP
"Some type" of lab setting can be a lot of things: chemistry, biology, environmental science, geology, chemical engineering, materials science, physics, mechanical engineering, and many more.
If you know that you want to go into forensics you can study forensics e.g. at these colleges:
https://www.forensicscolleges.com/usa
www.bachelorstudies.com/bsc/forensic-science/usa/amp
https://www.aafs.org/search/schools
Check out the websites of schools you would consider. It will tell you what the curriculum is.
If you are not sure about taking on science, check out related majors like criminal justice or forensic psychology. If you are interested in coding, computer science or data science could also be interesting options.
Your first stop for funding your studies is the financial aid office of your college. Next look for outside scholarships. There are need-based and merit-based scholarships. Some are for specific demographics only. You can check if your city or your state has any scholarships. Your parents or guardians might work for a company that has scholarships. Some professional societies also have scholarships.
You can search for forensics scholarships e.g. here:
https://www.forensicscolleges.com/blog/resources/forensics-scholarships
https://www.collegescholarships.com/major-degree/forensics-scholarships
Applying for scholarships takes time and effort. Check out interesting scholarships and what the requirements and deadlines are. Often times some kind of community service/volunteer work is required/desired. They also like to see some leadership potential. So, look at your extracurriculars and add what's missing. If your school has a science club, join. Find opportunities to intern or job shadow. You might not be able to get into a crime lab, but a chemistry lab is fine.
Science fairs are a good way to get some research experience and demonstrate interest, commitment, creativity etc. Does your school participate? Can you participate on your own?
Check out information here:
http://msef.sciencefair.info/
A forensics-themed project would look good on your resume for college admission and for scholarship applications. An award at state level could even get you a nice financial aid package from your college of choice.
I hope this helps! You have some reading to do. Google is your friend!
Good luck!
KP
Thank you so much for the advice.
Cessie