The big four

In this column, we hear from a seasoned fraud fighter and educator who has some excellent advice on skill building for new CFEs and students. You can discover how to develop these essential core traits through a mentor relationship or by observing those professionals you admire. Of course, it'll take some practice and occasional self-examination, but these traits are a step in the right direction as you begin your career.  — Colin May

After 10 years as a forensic accountant, plus three years teaching fraud examination courses at a state university, I've become accustomed to fielding students' questions about what it takes to enter the fraud examiner profession.

Here are some of the most common questions: What should I major in? What courses should I take? How do I get into the profession? What kind of work experience should I obtain to be most competitive? These are important logistical questions, but they don't cut to the core. Students would do well to sharpen four traits early in their careers: fraud acumen, communication skills, curiosity and objectivity.

Fraud acumen