For many, a CSI themed competition sounds like something straight out of a TV show, however for the Forensics Club at Woodland it’s a chance to use some of their most unique skills.

Clara Atallah, a senior in the club, held the competition as her senior project to allow students that share a passion for science to use those skills in an intellectually challenging and intense competition. Atallah introduced the club to Thomas Feige, the advisor, and together created the CSI Woodland Forensics Club.

The competition was nothing new to Atallah, who had competed once before. It was a great experience for her, and she wants other kids in her group to get experience before the big competition. This project teaches kids the importance of forensics.

The competition was held at the Hartford Library on Thursday, May 27th. The participants were tested on fingerprint analysis, interviewing the suspect, and presenting a case.

Ally Mayne, a sophomore in the club, shares her thoughts on the tasks that were required during the competition.

“I loved the part when we taped off and investigated the crime scene,” explains Mayne. “The whole competition was a great way to reinforce the skills we learned throughout the club.”

At the competition, many actual police were there at the mock trials to make it seem even more realistic.  The club had been preparing for months, and were introduced to many new skills. This group met once every month on a Thursday, and would practice by doing worksheets and other hands-on activities to help prepare them for the big competition.

The CSI Woodland Team finished in third place, including Will Flormann, John Searles, and Cameron Sardinskas, for the Hartford Forensics competition, and will be preparing to take first in next year’s competitions. The Forensics Competition was a great way for students to express skills that interested them, and will for years to come.

photo credit: http://programs.omsi.edu/sites/default/files/fsi-forensic-science-investigator.jpg