Love true crime podcasts?

Pop Culture Friday!

Students turn their obsession with true crime podcasts into a potential career

We’ve all watched popular movies about true crimes from the serious dramas “Zodiac” and “Goodfellas” to the more lighthearted “Catch Me If You Can” and “BlacKKKlansman.” And shows like “Unsolved Mysteries” and “Dateline,” have covered mysteries for years.?

Since podcasting has exploded in popularity, the original true crime podcast, “Serial,” spawned a whole industry, massively loyal followers, and inspired spinoff shows and movies such as “The Murdaugh Murders,” “The Dropout,” and the popular comedy “Only Murders In the Building.”

For the past four years, Western Michigan University has worked with the Michigan State Police through their Cold Case Program, where students can get hands-on experience in all aspects of investigative work, and help solve real cases. Earlier in 2023, they helped solve their second case, a 35 year old murder.

The WMU Cold Case Program with Michigan State Police is an immersive experience that equips students with some of the essential skills required for careers in law and law enforcement. Students who are accepted onto the team receive training in forensic science, law, and criminal investigation tactics. Then they work alongside police detectives to review cold homicide and missing person cases, offer fresh perspectives and assistance in developing new interviews, determining the feasibility of DNA testing, and assisting detectives in conducting research that supports their investigations. As part of this collaborative process, students gain hands-on investigative experience and a deeper understanding of the workings of the criminal justice system.

It was just announced that the MSP will fund the program and pay the students as state police cadets or student assistants. They will be state employees and have the opportunity to apply for government jobs as an internal transfer.

This is another example of finding your niche, and then bringing your passion to that niche, and then turning that into a career.

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