Career Exploration Project: Digital Forensics Analyst
The career I am exploring is that of Digital Forensics Analyst, or, forensic computer examiners. This career is under the broader category title of Forensic Science Technicians. In this career of Digital Forensics Analyst, many difficult tasked may be asked to be performed. Anywhere from collecting and analyzing evidence from any digital database, uncovering and prosecuting electronic fraud, scams, and identity theft. Like every other criminal justice career, this career requires a written report with the detailed evaluation of the evidence along with any findings. My job will consist of working with technology majority of the time, but I could also be called to give testimony in any trial regarding any findings.
I have worked with technology since I was an infant. I have worked at Municipal Operations & Consultant, where I worked with Excel files, Word, emails, and several databases. I have also assisted students with any technical difficulties regarding documents and files lost. Doing this research will benefit me by obtaining additional information and having a greater idea if continuing in this career will be the best option for my future. I chose this occupation for multiple reasons, but the main two reasons are I will always have employment with the technology field, and I have been exceedingly passionate for puzzles, problem-solving, and solving criminal cases.
In my EDUC 1300 class I took my Do What Your Are test, I received a score of ESFJ. These individual letters describe my personality according to the response I have chosen on questions provided for me. Each letter in the score has a different meaning which describes various aspects of my character. The E in my score stands for extraversion, meaning that my behavioral analysis shows that I enjoy the company of others more than being alone. Characteristics for my score are, focusing attention outwards, enjoying a variety of tasks, seeking out and needing other people, working at a rapid pace, and needing to talk through their ideas. The second letter S stands for sensing, which means that I focus on what it is rather than what it could be. Characteristics with my sensing score include focusing on "what is, " like working with physical, hands-on projects, use experiences in problem-solving, and need specific and realistic directions. As far as emotional scores, I scored an F for feeling. I received this score because the test concluded that I make decisions based on my values along with my emotions. Characteristics describing me based on my rating include motivation by working on things that are meaningful to me, I am sensitive to how issues may affect people, I like aiding others and being appreciated, and I need to work in a friendly environment. Lastly, the letter J which represents Judging, this means that I mostly like to have things planned out but may sometimes be spontaneous. Characteristics of this grade are like to maintain control of my projects, work towards completing their responsibilities before relaxing, prefer predictable work patterns and environment, and finally, enjoy work that allows me to make decisions. This grade, or, the score will help me in choosing a career that I will be passionate and dedicated to, such as a career in the Criminal Justice field.
The career I have chosen to explore is Digital Forensics Analyst, or also known as Forensic Science Technician. To be able to pursue a career in this field you will have to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a natural science, such as chemistry or biology, or in forensic science (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Several students begin their studies in a two-year program that focuses on forensic science or criminal justice. After completing their two years, they go on to earn a four-year degree. Some community colleges have agreements with four-year colleges and universities to facilitate transfers for degrees.
There are several colleges and or universities where the bachelor's degree can be obtained. These colleges and universities are all located in the state of Texas, and all provide training that works toward the career. A couple of colleges are Lamar University in Beaumont, Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Amarillo College in Amarillo, Saint Edward's University in Austin, Texas Tech University in Lubbock and many more ("Forensic Science Technicians"). Training in this field is obtained through several years of work-related experiences, on-the-job training, and vocational training.
