REALITY SHOWS?

During the last few years there have been an astonishing number of programmes focused entirely on forensics such as Waking the Dead and CSI Miami, Vegas and New York to name a few. Just how realistic are these programmes about this kind of work and how realistic a career choice is it? Day to day work as a forensic scientist in the UK is pretty far removed from the gloss of CSI but entry is competitive.

Get the real low down on this work, and examples of jobs, on the websites for the Forensic Science Society and Forensic Science Service. A good degree in a Biology or Chemistry related subject is more important than good looks, and a postgraduate qualification in forensic science might not go amiss.

Did the West Wing spark any desires to work in the political arena and run for president? Well forget about the president bit unless you are a US citizen but there are jobs in politics in the UK. However, be prepared to start at the bottom and demonstrate your enthusiasm by involving yourself in local politics at party or community level. This can mean pushing leaflets through doors and talking to local residents about their gripes, hopefully without them setting their dogs on you. You’ll get a taste of the reality of politics and the experience can illustrate your commitment when you put it in your CV. In a few years the future Prime Minister won’t make a decision without you.

Fighting injustice, winning impossible causes using your intellect and wit while members of the opposite sex gaze in admiration has got to mean legal work. However, being a solicitor might actually include dealing with divorces, house purchases and disputes between neighbours. To get a realistic picture you could mooch along to your local court and observe the cases.

Still interested in any of the jobs I’ve mentioned, or others I haven’t? Get in touch with reality by looking at careers information found in university careers services, resources such as the AGCAS job profiles in the Prospects website and on the websites for professional bodies.

www.prospects.ac.uk/links/occupations
www.forensic-science-society.org.uk
www.forensic.gov.uk
www.w4mp.org
www.lcan.org.uk
www.lawsociety.org.uk
www.lawscot.org.uk
www.barcouncil.org.uk
www.advocates.org.uk

by Laura Hooke, Careers Consultant, Graduate Prospects