Lainie Shoop

My ultimate career goal, following graduation, is to specialize in forensics or criminology. As a Criminal Justice major at Penn State Schuylkill, I am fully committed to furthering my education to achieve this ambition. While I will hold a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, I have already completed a substantial number of biology courses, which will help me efficiently complete my biology degree—a critical component of my desired career in forensics. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am currently gaining hands-on experience through an internship with the Forensics Unit of the State Police. This invaluable opportunity allows me to observe and participate in advanced forensic investigations, providing me with firsthand exposure tinvestigative techniques, crime scene analysis, and the behind-the-scenes processes that are essential in forensic science. Although forensics is my primary focus, I am also considering pursuing graduate studies in criminology, with the long-term goal of joining a prestigious agency such as the FBI. My internship experience, coupled with my academic background, is helping me develop the practical insights and professional skills necessary to succeed in the field of criminal justice. I am eager to continue expanding my knowledge and working alongside seasoned professionals to shape my future career path.

• Fall 2021:

Intro to Psychology

Intro to Sociology

Biology 1 lecture

Biology 1 Lab

• Spring 2022:

Intro to Criminal Justice

Chemistry1 Lecture

Chemistry 1 Lab

Biology Research

• Fall 2022:

Biology 2 Lecture/Lab

Computer Programming 1

• Spring 2023:

Chemistry 2 Lecture/Lab

Organic Chemistry 1 Lab

• Fall 2023:

Courts Prosecution Process

• Spring 2024:

Ethics in Criminal Justice

Juvenile Justice System

Drugs and Crime

Corrections in America

Criminal Justice Stats Analysis

• Fall 2024:

Criminology

American Policing

Law and Society

Race, Ethnicity, and Culture

Honors:

High School:

• Distinguished Honor Roll
• Regular Honor Roll
• 2021 February student of the month

College:

• Spring 2024 Deans List
• Fall 2024 Deans List

Scholarships:

Juniata College:

• M.G. Brumbaugh Scholarship
• Juniata Community Scholarship Class of 1963 Scholarship Fund

Penn State:

• Blanning Endowed Scholarship

• CITI Human Subjects Research Certificate
• CITI Social and Behavioral Human Subject Research (IRB) Course

Forensics Intern

State Police Forensics Unit, November 2024- April 2025

-Assisted in the processing and analysis of crime scene evidence. Learned advanced forensic techniques such as DNA analysis and fingerprint identification. Observed expert investigators and participated in real-world crime scene evaluations.

Research Student- Biology Department

Juniata College, Sept. 2021-2022

· Conducted biological research focused on DNA extraction and analysis from environmental samples.

· Collected samples from various surfaces, including door handles and other high-touch areas around housing units, to investigate environmental DNA presence.

· Performed DNA extraction using specialized kits, preparing samples for downstream analysis to explore patterns of microbial or genetic material in urban environments.

· Ensured precise documentation of sample collection, maintaining a strict protocol to ensure data integrity and reproducibility.