Trainee Fingerprint Officer, Glasgow
After little success and growing disillusionment with her original career choice of film work, encompassing her interest in art and in science, Isobel decided it was time for a change in career direction.
"I've always had an interest in science and decided that this was what I should focus on, in particular forensic science. As I have no university degree in a science subject, and did not have the time or money to study for another degree, a lab role was not an option.
Fingerprints appealed because it fitted with my attraction to forensic science as well as matching up well with my skills base - an eye for detail etc.
From a general perspective, I was looking for a job which was interesting but also worthwhile. I wanted a job with a purpose, which affected and helped people and one which would challenge my mind and provide me with training in a science related discipline.
Isobel says training to be a fingerprint expert has lived up to her expectations.
When I started I expected to first be trained in all the basic aspects of fingerprints, and to be sent on a course to be assessed on the basics. I then expected to return and start looking at real cases, whilst still continuing the learning process, to build up enough knowledge and experience over several years to be an expert. All my expectations have been met. It has been a lot of information to take in, but an enjoyable process. I immediately felt part of a team and accepted as an equal, despite being a fairly new trainee.
Having had some experience of the work involved, Isobel has found a varied skill set is essential to succeed in her new role.
There are key skills required to fulfil this role including excellent observation skills, attention to detail, analytical skills, patience and the ability to think logically.
For Isobel the most challenging aspect of her role is realising the importance of the work she does.
One of the most challenging aspects of this job is the need to be meticulous in everything that we do - our judgement can have an affect on the lives of other people.
Despite only starting out her career in fingerprint identification Isobel is already extremely passionate about what she does and is sure she has made the right choice.
So many careers these days just involve a lot of paper pushing- that's just not for me. This job is worthwhile and I have job satisfaction which comes from getting things right and providing one of the key services in the detection, prevention and solving of crime.