<p>I've always had a special interest in science, in all it's lovely forms. It's been difficult for me to pick a favorite. Right now I'm working on a Chemistry major at a two-year college. I thought I wanted to go into Biochemistry and research, but lately a new idea has taken root in my mind. I love problem solving, working through a puzzle, having a goal. I love watching TV shows like Bones and others where investigators are working to solve crimes. (Please no one tell me how false the forensics is in these shows, I am well aware.) If I studied Forensics I wouldn't have to pick a favorite science and I'd get to study all of the other non-science subjects I enjoy too. The more I think about it the more I want to do it. I even have a college in mind that I think would be perfect. I'm find the thought of two long years before I transfer to be discouraging, though tolerable.
Is anyone else interested in this field? Have you started your studies? Do you know what you want to focus on?</p>
<p>I do not recommend taking a forensic science undergrad degree. Most crime labs hire people with a BS in chemistry, biochemistry (best), or biology (with mol. cell, and biochem courses). They don’t have a preference for forensics majors. The reason being is they have to train you from the ground up anyways (about a year) for you to be a credible analyst. Also if you do not get a job in forensics (it is very competitive despite the rather low pay and high boredom) most companies will not hire you as a chemist, tech, biologist…</p>
<p>If you get hired as a forensic scientist you can always pursue a MS/PhD in forensics later while employed if you feel it will help.</p>
<p>The job is not as interesting as you have heard/seen on TV. Crime lab analysts receive samples and run the same GC/MS or DNA tests over and over again exactly as the protocols say and filling out hordes of paperwork because if there is so much as a missing date the evidence is tossed and you will likely be fired, and have to live knowing your small mistake put a rapist back on the streets.</p>
<p>Also state govts and some large cities are the only employers and they are in no position to be hiring and have lead the nation in layoffs, furloughs, hiring freezes.</p>
<p>I’ll definitely think about what your saying as to the major. You’re not the first person I have heard to advise not to get a major in forensics.
As to the job being boring, I totally agree. I don’t think I would be able to stand only working in the lab. It would be a high pressure job but I think it could also be pretty rewarding and stimulating.
I’m not locked into the idea a hundred percent but it is intriguing to me for all of the reasons I already mentioned. I don’t want to be just sitting in a lab (any kind of lab) running samples for my entire working career. I want to work towards a job that is challenging for me.
Thank you for your input and suggestions! :)</p>