Professionalism

Jane Berger
Hingham MA  

Professionalism by definition is how others perceive you. As students in the Master of Science in Forensic Science program we are introduced to the importance of professionalism in a multitude of settings.

First year students in a professional communications class during their very first semester. As part of this class, students are expected to dress in business casual attire and many different topics are discussed such as etiquette, appearance, presentation skills, and body language. A mock interview is also conducted at the end of the course. The mock interview is conducted by forensic science professionals. At the end of the mock interview the students are critiqued and given suggestions on how to improve their interview skills.

Second year students attend multiple conferences to present original research. At these conferences, students put these skills to the test. Students are required to dress appropriately and are given the opportunity to attend research presentations and meet members of the forensic science community.  The second year students also enroll in a seminar course as well as a course titled “Legal and Ethical Issues in Forensic Science” In this course students examine simulated physical evidence and testify as expert witnesses at a local courthouse in a mock trial. Students are cross-examined by a seasoned defense attorney. As part of the seminar course, students present the results of their graduate research in front of faculty and students. The student is expected to answer questions in this public forum as well as in closed session with members of their research committee. This aids in honing the presentation skills needed in a professional setting.

There are ample opportunities for program students to demonstrate professionalism with the hope that it will become engrained. The program as a whole is designed to give each student the skills necessary to succeed in any professional environment.