I was horrible at science and math. I couldn't pass a test to save my life! I'm surprised that it didn't take me until I was 20 to graduate. That's why my role is so cool - Grissom is the complete opposite of me.

William Petersen’s quote, "I was horrible at science and math. I couldn't pass a test to save my life!" reflects his personal struggle with subjects like science and math during his academic years. In this self-deprecating statement, Petersen shares his difficulties with subjects that are often considered fundamental in many educational systems, highlighting how these challenges made his academic journey harder. His admission underscores the idea that even those who later achieve great success may not have excelled in the same areas as others early on.

He goes on to say, "I'm surprised that it didn't take me until I was 20 to graduate," which suggests that Petersen felt fortunate to have graduated at all, given his struggles with academics. This part of the quote adds a sense of humility and reflection on how he overcame his difficulties. It reflects his surprise at being able to finish his education despite his early challenges, reinforcing the idea that persistence and determination can lead to success, even when the path is difficult.

Petersen contrasts his own experiences with his role in the television series CSI, where he portrayed Gil Grissom, a character who is highly intelligent and skilled in science and forensics. By saying, "Grissom is the complete opposite of me," Petersen emphasizes the contrast between his real-life struggles with science and math and his character’s intellectual prowess. This contrast makes his role as Grissom particularly enjoyable and rewarding for him as an actor, since it allows him to step into a completely different persona.

In essence, Petersen’s quote reflects both self-awareness and humility. He embraces the irony of playing a character who is proficient in areas where he once struggled, which highlights the versatility and creativity required in acting. His reflection also shows how acting allows him to explore roles that are far removed from his personal experiences, making the role of Grissom particularly exciting for him.