Students are bustling around the classroom, picking apart information, trying to solve a crime. 

The forensics class’s  latest lab was on analyzing evidence found at a made up crime scene and comparing it to the suspects. 

“We have a bunch of evidence that we’re looking at, and we’re trying to figure out who committed the crime. As well as looking at shoe impressions and fingerprints,” said Olivia Fullarton.

Doing these labs can help push students towards their goals in life such as becoming forensic scientists or doctors. Analyzing DNA and other information can help inspire students to continue on their career path.

“I am actually currently looking into going into criminology,” said Crimson Reid.

According to the School of Science: IUPUI, greater than 90% of students in the forensic science bachelor degree program are now working full time in the forensics field according to the program facts and statistics as of 2019. There are internships such as ones at the Maryland State Police Crime Laboratory. 

“I think it’ll help spread awareness and so you can see the patterns in real life and apply what you learned in real life,” said Fullarton.

Instructor Ms. Jessica Baker thinks that the students can improve from this class.

“I think that it will give them a good perspective on what it’s like to be a forensic investigator,” said Baker.

Typically in forensics class, students learn about different types of evidence.  These skills are then applied through labs. The students also occasionally watch crime shows and documentaries.

The last thing the forensics class did was learn about analyzing different types of data. The next lab they’re doing is toxicology. 

“My favorite part of the class is analyzing the handwriting and really seeing how accurate it can be,” Mikeah Smith said.

Many students have decided that forensics is a good class for them. 

“I joined the class because it seemed fun. I’ve always been interested in true crime, and I thought it was a cool class,” Crimson Ried said.