Degree: BS Criminology & Justice Studies and BA Sociology ’21
Concentration: Criminal Justice
Research Interests: Male reintegration and sexual assault
Extracurricular activities: Vice President, Criminal Justice Society; SimCity Specialist, Justice in our Community course (CJS260)
Awards: A.J. Drexel Scholarship

Coolest experience you’ve had through your major?
The coolest experience I have had through my major was visiting the Eastern State Penitentiary with the Criminal Justice Society. Although I am a native Philadelphian, I had never been to this historic prison. I also did not know the history behind it, nor the influence it had on the rest of the world at that time.

What were some of your most memorable travel experiences through Drexel?
My most memorable travel experience happened during my sophomore year, when I was invited to study abroad in Norway, Sweden and Denmark. While there, I also toured and heard lectures at the Danish National Police, the Rockwool Foundation, Halden Prison, and a Danish immigration detention center. This study abroad allowed me to finally experience that part of the world, and also to visit a prison that I absolutely adore. I am looking forward to applying for Dr. Robert Kanes’ study abroad trip in Israel next year!

What is one thing a faculty member has told you – or a particular course/lesson – that has stuck with you?
Every course/lesson and faculty member has taught me something that will always stick with me. However, my favorite was when Dr. Cyndi Rickards stated in the course Prison, Society, and You that “people, are not/cannot be inherently bad, but instead just make bad choices.”

What led you to choose your major?
America is currently plagued with police officers abusing their powers and hiding behind broken policies. I decided that the best course of action, for me, was to fight this problem from the inside, instead of fighting the problem from the outside.

What motivates you?
My family motivates me every day to continue my higher education. I am not a first-generation college student; however, I plan to be the first in my family to graduate college. My family are rooting for me every step of the way, and I am forever grateful for it!

What advice do you have for a high school student looking for an undergraduate program?
My advice would be to take your time and find what truly interests you! Pick the program that yells your name and draws your heart. The workload will feel a little lighter when you are studying your passion!

What are your goals for after graduation? What do you hope to do with your Drexel degree?
My goal after graduation is to go right back to school and get my master’s and my PhD in criminology and justice studies. I aspire to conduct research on male reintegration, and I also aspire to become the state prosecutor for Pennsylvania one day!