MS in Criminal Justice

Maxine Bradshaw, 2023

When are you graduating?

Spring 2023

Describe your dissertation, thesis, or capstone (if you completed one):

Capstone:

The Active Bystandership Law Enforcement (ABLE) is a national hub for training, technical assistance, and research, all with the aim of creating a police culture in which officers routinely intervene—and accept interventions—as necessary to:
•Prevent misconduct,
•Avoid police mistakes, and
•Promote officer health and wellness.

I analyzed use of force and citizen complaints data at two police departments that have the ABLE program implemented. Then, I analyzed use of force and citizen complaints data at two other police departments that do not have the ABLE program implemented. I was curious about the effectiveness of the program and if there is a difference between use of force and citizen complaints across all the departments.

How did your academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences impact you?

[My experiences in CHSS] gave me a different aspect to look at the criminal justice system.

Of which accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud?

Maintaining a high GPA throughout my time here and, of course, making connections with my professors and classmates.

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students?

Network with your professors and with your fellow graduate peers. You never know what types of connections either your professors or peers may have.

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

I am currently employed with the United States Secret Service, headquarters. Long-term goals include starting a career in Federal Law Enforcement.