Jacee Fields, a senior on the University of Southern Mississippi’s women’s golf team, is set to graduate in May with a degree in forensic science and plans to pursue a career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Fields began playing competitive golf at age 9, influenced by her father, whose enthusiasm for the sport extended to the entire family. As the oldest of three daughters, she said she embraced the game early but eventually realized her ambitions extended beyond the golf course.
“Being an athlete has so many benefits,” Fields said. “An athlete will learn teamwork, attention to detail, the value of hard work and dedication, and the mental toughness it takes to play this sport.”
At Southern Miss, Fields is majoring in forensic science and minoring in psychology. She said her academic path strengthened her desire to join the FBI, where qualities such as adaptability, self-discipline, relationship building, and communication are essential.
“Being an athlete has led to me gaining physical and mental strength and endurance which will help me on my future,” Fields said. “Lastly, being an athlete has taught me how to listen and take directions from authority figures.”
Fields said she believes her athletic experience has equipped her with many of the same skills required by FBI agents.
“The FBI represents fidelity, bravery, and integrity,” Fields said. “I believe in all of these traits, and I want to help innocent people by taking care of the bad people.”
Fellow student-athlete Fernanda Gorostiaga said Fields has demonstrated growth both on and off the course.
“Jacee is an amazing person, very sweet and she cares truly about people,” Gorostiaga said. “She is very smart, strong, and… her progress has been very impressive.”
Gorostiaga also noted that the discipline and time management skills learned through collegiate athletics are applicable to careers beyond sports.
“I think by being an athlete, she has acquired plenty of skills that she’ll use in her future career,” Gorostiaga said. “Being a student-athlete makes you more disciplined and teaches you about time management, teamwork, and communication skills.”
Fields is among many college athletes whose career goals lie outside of professional sports. She plans to use the skills gained through athletics and her academic training to pursue federal service.
After graduation, Fields will have knowledge in processing and analyzing fingerprints, documenting crime scenes, and firearm handling, among other investigative techniques.
