4-H Alumni Spotlight
Using Science to Help People Captivates 4-H Alum
Anna B. Wilson is a life-long resident of Washington. She grew up in Snohomish County where she participated in 4-H and Irish Dance. In 4-H, Anna raised and judged rabbits and continues to be involved behind the scenes with the Evergreen State Fair. She also participated in 4-H photography, performing arts, and public demonstrations. Anna received a B.S. in Biology and a B.A. in Spanish from WSU in 2004. After graduation Anna interned in the Tacoma Microanalysis section of the Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory where she worked on a fiber database project. In 2005 she was hired by the Washington State Patrol as a Forensic Scientist in the DNA section. Anna became a member of the Crime Scene Response Team in 2008. When not working she likes spending time with her husband, Derreck, and Sherbet, her cat.
What did you appreciate most about your time in 4-H?
In 4-H I had the opportunity to grow and to become an independent, confident woman. I appreciate that 4-H taught me how to build self-confidence and how to become comfortable with myself.
What skills did you learn in 4-H that are helping you in your career today?
4-H taught me public speaking and leadership skills that I use in my career. Presenting demonstrations gave me the skills I use when I speak in court and explain what I do to the jury. I have also used my oral reasoning skills to explain my decisions. I am sometimes asked why I package items from crime scenes a certain way and I can articulate why one way of packing evidence is better than another.
When did you first get interested in Forensic Science?
I use to watch CSI all the time but it wasn't until my senior year in college that a friend mentioned there was a forensic science club at WSU. I attended a few meetings and by the end of the year the club advisor offered one internship position with the Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory in Tacoma. I jumped at the chance to apply and ended up winning the spot. Once I began databasing fibers and getting a feel for forensics I knew it was something that I would want to do for a living.
What about Forensic Science captivates and motivates you?
That fact that I am able to apply science to help people captivates me. My reports can make a huge difference in someone’s life. Forensics give closure for families involved with terrible loss, gives the community public safety, and the exonerates the innocent. I am motivated to find the truth.
What would you tell youth about the important role science plays in life and/or careers?
Science is all around us in gravity, air, water, etc. It plays an important role in everyone’s life, we just don't always think about it. Careers in science are becoming more common. To become competitive in this growing field of science you will need to study hard and take as many science and math classes as you can. The classes may be difficult but understanding science and the world around you will pay-off in the end.
Did 4-H help you to overcome any particular challenges as you were growing up?
I was very quiet in school. I kept my head down and tried not to bring any attention to myself. In 4-H I found that it was okay to lift your head up and be yourself. With Fitting & Showing I was taught to keep eye contact, stand straight, and show the judge what I know.
What advice would you give to youth as they embark on their education and careers?
Be confident, not cocky.
Posted April 2011
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