TV shows inspire kids' interest in forensic science

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NEWS) - Shows like "CSI" have inspired a new generation of kids who are interested in forensic science.

Inspired by National Forensics Science Week, the New York City Medical Examiner's Office opened its doors to hundreds of high school students who may one day be the next forensic criminologist or medical examiner. The kids were chosen from schools all over the tri-state area. This is the real "CSI."

Relatively new inventions like 3D printers create molds of skulls giving scientists clues to everything from a victim's ethnicity to cause of death.

This experience has been invaluable for students. Students were also treated to a tour of the crime lab.  Scientists use clothing like jeans and baseball caps and weapons like blood-splattered bricks and hammers to give them clues from a crime scene.