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how do i ask to interview someone/get someone to agree to an interview?

i'm in 8th grade and i'm doing a school project on forensic pathology. i really want to get a first-hand source by interviewing someone who works in the field, but i don't know how to approach asking someone. my biggest concern is that i'll come off as joking or not be taken seriously because of my age. how do i reach out to people to interview them and be taken seriously?

interviews forensics forensic-science middle-school forensic-pathology
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Kirsten’s Answer

Most adults like helping out kids for school projects and such. Honestly, I recommend you emailing the person by saying exactly what you said on this post! I've formatted a draft below:

Good afternoon,

My name is Graves, and I am an 8th grade student looking to get a first-hand source for a school project on forensic pathology.

I am reaching out in hopes of interviewing a professional in the field. If there is anyone willing to chat on the phone for a quick 5-minute phone interview, please reach out to me as soon as possible; my project is due on [insert date].

Thanks,
Graves
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Samuel’s Answer

It's a great idea to find out what others think about it. This will definitely reveal to you things that might make your project less useful so you can work on changing those things. One of the best ways to approach people for an interview is to first talk to them about your project. This way, you'll likely find people who are excited about it, then you can ask them for advice. This can turn into an exciting conversation in which you can ask any questions you want.
Best of Luck,
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Kevin P’s Answer

Graves, first and foremost, I would be honored if you wanted to interview me in my given field. Secondly, anyone passionate about their field will love being interviewed by a young mind in order to share mutual interest.

Now of course there will always be the one rude person but the greater majority will be honored and love to speak with you.

So here if how you easily start this conversation. “Hi my name is Graves. I’m in 8th grade. I would like to interview you about your work and your field. I have a school project and I picked your area of expertise. Will you please help me?” If you came to me with that, you better get your pen and paper ready because you got an interview!

Now how can you find someone to interview? Normally I would suggest LinkedIn but you may not have one. That’s okay. You might be able to use a parents, guardians, or teachers LinkedIn. If you do just make an introduction first.

Another way, where do these people work? Usually police departments and crime labs. Go to a local police station with a parent or guardian and ask in person. Believe it or not, most departments have either a community liaison officer or an educational officer. If you call the local police department, do NOT call 911. Find the non emergency phone number on line to your local police department.

Either way, you just ask. If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.

Best of luck.
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Racheal’s Answer

Hello,
Thank you for your question.
If you find that what you are doing is serious and important, than others will too. Consider this platform, your question is being answered because all adult know that at one point we had a lot of questions or needed someone to lift us as we ate climbing so we haven't forgot that learning curve.
Send the message request 10-15 mins for the interview for the course and you'll be surprised what comes from that experience.
I also suggest emailing more than one person so that you have more options to reduce waiting time .
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Lindsay’s Answer

That's a great question! Interviewing is a really important skill and something that can really help you dive deeper and learn more about a topic. In my experience, people like to talk about themselves and often feel flattered when approached for an informational interview. Here's a script you could try via email or you can adjust it if you're asking someone in person/over the phone:

**Subject:** Request for Informational Interview

Hi [Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I’m currently [briefly describe your current role, studies, or interests]. I’ve been following your work in [specific area/industry], and I admire your experience and insights.

I’m very interested in learning more about [specific field or area of their expertise], and I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to hear about your career journey and any advice you might have for someone looking to grow in this space. If you’re open to it, I would love to schedule a brief informational interview at your convenience.

Thank you for considering my request. I understand you have a busy schedule, so even 15–20 minutes would be incredibly valuable.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
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Mark’s Answer

Start with a nice greeting, the reason for the message and be direct.

As an example - Hello Sir, I am very interested in learning about forensic pathology for a school project. Would it be possible to speak with you or someone on your team for 15 min please?

Your time and kind consideration is very much appreciated.

Best,

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