Statement of Originality; This portfolio is the work of Sandra Adams. Some exhibits, work samples, and service samples contained within are proprietary to Sandra Adams, as indicated on the documents. Unauthorized copying or use of this portfolio is prohibited.
Graduate Portfolio
As a graduate student in Criminal Justice and Crime Analysis at Boston University, my work integrates data-driven analysis, intelligence gathering, and policy evaluation to address complex issues within the criminal justice system. This portfolio highlights my expertise in crime trend analysis, intelligence assessments, and the development of evidence-based policy recommendations aimed at enhancing public safety and justice outcomes. With a focus on both the practical and ethical implications of criminal justice practices, my projects reflect a commitment to improving systemic issues through actionable insights that balance theory and real-world applications. Through this work, I aim to contribute to more effective, equitable, and data-informed criminal justice policies.
The Boston Massacre: Propaganda, Colonial Sentiment, and the Strained Relationship with Britain
In this assignment, I proposed a content analysis strategy to study how Paul Revere’s engraving “The Bloody Massacre” depicted the Boston Massacre and served as political propaganda in the lead-up to the American Revolution. I focused on how the engraving portrayed offenders and victims, the emotional tone of the language, visual symbolism, and the omission of key details (such as Crispus Attucks). Additionally, I explored how the image contributed to revolutionary pamphleteering and influenced public perception. Applying course concepts and using these five key variables, I developed coding procedures to systematically assess articles found in the BU database and tested the coding scheme with a pilot sample of five articles, reporting the results.
Undergraduate Portfolio
As a Political Science major at California State University, Long Beach, I engaged deeply with key issues in politics, law, and society. My undergraduate portfolio reflects my academic growth and my ability to critically analyze complex topics, from international conflicts to domestic policies. The papers presented here highlight my research, writing, and analytical skills, as well as my capacity to connect theoretical frameworks with real-world issues. Through these works, I developed a strong foundation in political analysis and public policy, as well as the ability to examine current events and their implications from multiple perspectives.
The Conservative Legal Movement and Its Rise in Modern American Politics.
This white paper examines the evolution of the Conservative Legal Movement (CLM) in the United States, tracing its origins from the opposition to the New Deal in the mid-20th century to its contemporary influence on the judiciary. It explores key figures, organizations, and intellectual developments, with a particular focus on the Federalist Society’s role in reshaping American legal thought and judicial appointments. The paper also analyzes the movement’s impact on constitutional interpretation, its adaptation to political changes, and its pivotal role in the Trump era, especially in preserving democratic processes. By engaging with historical, legal, and political analysis, this paper demonstrates my ability to conduct comprehensive research, critically evaluate ideological movements, and assess their long-term implications for U.S. law and politics.
Women’s Rights and America’s Decline in Democracy Compared to Western European Countries.
In this paper, I explore the intersection of women’s rights and democracy in the United States, comparing these issues to those in Western European countries. I analyze how the lack of full gender equality in the U.S. has contributed to democratic decline, examining factors such as political participation, economic inequality, and social rights. By comparing the U.S. to countries like Germany and France, I argue that Western European nations, which have made more progress on women’s rights, show stronger democratic institutions as a result. This paper demonstrates my ability to critically analyze social and political issues and draw comparisons across different political systems..
Sandra Abigail Adams 