Meet Shanika Freeman

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 11:48:36 -0500
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B.A.: Recidivism and Policy in Urban Communities

Any other major, minor, certificate, and/or honors that will be on your graduation records

Minor: Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Degree Mentors

Dr. Laszlo Korossy, Political Science

Carrie Sauter, Individualized Study

Why did you choose to major in INDS?

I chose INDS because it allows me to combine my interests in sociology, urban studies, and policy in a way that feels cohesive and focused. The program’s flexibility has been crucial in helping me explore these fields while addressing complex topics like mass incarceration, recidivism, and crime.

What are your plans for after graduation, and how do you see using your INDS degree?

After graduation, I plan to pursue a Fulbright grant to research recidivism and reentry among women in Norway or pursue my Master’s in criminology, where I can continue to focus on prison systems, recidivism, and reentry processes. The fields of recidivism and reentry are inherently interdisciplinary, often requiring a deep understanding of sociology, criminal justice, public policy, and geographical information systems (GIS), among other disciplines. Through my INDS degree, I’ve gained the skills and to navigate these fields to address real-world issues.

EXTRACURRICULAR

Opinions Writer and Editor, The Retriever

Student Ambassador, Alex Brown Center of Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Student Volunteer for the Individualized Study Committee, Individualized Study Program at UMBC

Intern with the ""I Hate Politics" Podcast, UMBC

Research and Evaluation Intern, Annie E. Casey Foundation

For more information on Shanika's INDS journey please click here: