My journey toward pursuing a career in cybersecurity has been shaped by resilience, overcoming personal obstacles, and a strong desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. I am deeply passionate about creating a safer digital world, especially for vulnerable individuals and communities, and empowering them to protect themselves from cybercrime. While my academic and professional path has been shaped by challenges, they have only strengthened my determination to succeed and give back to others facing similar struggles. Growing up, I faced a communication disorder that required me to attend therapy sessions twice a week. This struggle made it difficult for me to express myself clearly, but it also taught me resilience, perseverance, and how to advocate for myself. As I worked through these challenges, I found myself drawn to technology, fascinated by its potential to solve problems and make a difference. This curiosity eventually led me to found Verian Cyber Security, a company I started in high school to combat phishing websites and protect people from online scams. Through my work with Verian Cyber Security, I’ve not only gained valuable experience but also recognized how under served communities often lack access to the resources they need to defend themselves from online threats. As someone who has overcome personal adversity, I feel compelled to use my skills to bridge the gap for those who may not have the same opportunities or knowledge to protect themselves. I want to empower others to navigate the digital world safely, particularly marginalized groups who may be more vulnerable to cyber threats. The financial challenges I’ve faced throughout my academic journey have made it difficult to continue my education without sacrificing time and energy needed to run my business. However, I’ve learned to navigate these obstacles with resilience, relying on determination and the support of mentors who believe in my potential. A scholarship like the Anthony B. Davis Scholarship would ease my financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my education and business. It would provide the resources to continue my studies in computer science and cybersecurity while growing my company and strengthening my skills. My goal is to use my education to expand Verian Cyber Security and develop tools that not only protect individuals and businesses but also help educate under served communities about the risks they face online. With more resources and knowledge, I can build a more inclusive approach to cybersecurity, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or access to resources, can protect themselves in the digital age. This scholarship would allow me to continue to grow both academically and professionally, enabling me to make a greater impact in the cybersecurity field and contribute to my community. I believe in the power of technology to create positive change, and I am dedicated to using my skills to help others. By continuing to work hard, learn, and grow, I hope to inspire other young people, especially from under served communities, to pursue their passions and become leaders in their own right. In conclusion, this scholarship will help me achieve my academic and professional goals by providing the financial support I need to focus on my studies and continue to grow Verian Cyber Security. I am determined to overcome any obstacle in my path and to create lasting, positive change in the cybersecurity field.

My future plans are centered around my passion for cybersecurity and my goal of making the digital world a safer place. As the founder of Verian Cyber Security, a company I started in high school to combat phishing websites and protect vulnerable users, I have seen firsthand how damaging cyber threats can be. Moving forward, I aim to expand my business and pursue a formal education in computer science, with a focus on cybersecurity. With the right education, I can develop innovative solutions to combat evolving cyber threats and help individuals and organizations better protect their data. In the immediate future, I plan to enroll in a computer science program at a university that offers comprehensive courses in cybersecurity. While my experience in cybersecurity has provided valuable hands-on learning, I recognize the need for a deeper understanding of the technical and theoretical aspects of the field. Advanced knowledge in areas such as cryptography, ethical hacking, and network security will allow me to strengthen my business, develop more effective defenses, and stay ahead of new, more sophisticated cyber threats. At the same time, I am committed to growing Verian Cyber Security into a more established business. I started the company with a mission to fight phishing websites and prevent online scams that affect individuals and businesses alike. I want to use my business as a platform not only for cybersecurity defense but also to educate people about online risks. Many individuals, especially those in smaller businesses, do not have the resources or knowledge to protect themselves. By combining my cybersecurity expertise with the knowledge I gain from my education, I will be better equipped to help others. This scholarship will be crucial in helping me achieve these goals. With this financial support, I will be able to focus more on my studies and business without the need to work a part-time job to cover expenses. The ability to dedicate more time to Verian Cyber Security will allow me to continue taking down phishing websites and strengthen my cybersecurity efforts. Without the distraction of needing to work, I will have the opportunity to stay on top of new threats and dedicate more time to research, development, and expanding my company’s services. Additionally, the scholarship will allow me to engage in internships, hackathons, and other hands-on experiences that will complement my education. These opportunities are essential for building a network within the cybersecurity community and gaining real-world experience. With the flexibility to focus fully on my education and business, I will be able to stay ahead in a rapidly changing field and deepen my expertise. In the long term, I hope to expand Verian Cyber Security into a company that not only provides top-tier cybersecurity services but also educates and empowers others to protect themselves online. The knowledge and skills I gain through my education and this scholarship will allow me to create new tools, advance cybersecurity strategies, and make a tangible impact in the field. In conclusion, my future plans are focused on advancing my cybersecurity business, gaining a formal education, and using my skills to help others secure their digital lives. This scholarship will enable me to achieve these goals by allowing me to dedicate more time to my studies and business. With this support, I am confident that I can continue my work in cybersecurity and make a lasting impact in the digital world.

Essay: Applying Sun Tzu's Wisdom to Cybersecurity The passage from The Art of War by Sun Tzu, “If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle,” embodies a timeless principle of strategy that applies not only to military conflict but also to fields like cybersecurity. As someone with experience in the cybersecurity industry, I see this principle as a fundamental lesson in understanding the delicate balance between defending our systems and understanding the tactics of those who wish to breach them. In cybersecurity, the “enemy” represents the hackers, cybercriminals, and malicious actors who exploit vulnerabilities in digital systems. The “self” refers to the networks, technologies, protocols, and security measures we put in place to protect sensitive data and information. The crux of Sun Tzu’s statement is that true strategic success depends on a deep understanding of both your own strengths and weaknesses, and the strategies and tactics of your adversary. In the digital age, where cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, this ancient wisdom is incredibly relevant. The first part of the passage, “If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles,” speaks directly to the idea of preparedness. In the world of cybersecurity, this is the core of a defensive strategy. To effectively protect any system, we must first understand the systems we are defending—their architecture, potential vulnerabilities, and how the data flows through them. By understanding the weaknesses in our own systems, we can identify areas that require additional protection. At the same time, understanding the enemy’s tactics—such as phishing attacks, ransomware, or social engineering—is crucial for anticipating their methods and countering them. This understanding allows us to proactively patch vulnerabilities, deploy the right security tools, and implement appropriate response measures. For example, in my own work with Verian Cyber Security, I deal with phishing websites and online scams. In this case, knowing both our defense mechanisms and the tactics of cybercriminals is crucial. Cybercriminals often use psychological manipulation, luring users into believing they are interacting with trusted institutions. If we don’t understand their methods, we risk underestimating the human element of the attack, which is often the weakest link in the security chain. Conversely, by staying informed about the evolving techniques of attackers and adapting our defense strategies, we can significantly reduce the likelihood of a successful attack. The second part of the passage, “If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat,” highlights the danger of becoming too focused on the defense without considering the evolving threat landscape. This speaks to a common pitfall in cybersecurity: complacency. Once we implement a security measure, it’s easy to assume we’re safe. However, cybercriminals are constantly adapting, finding new ways to exploit weaknesses that we might not have considered. The dynamic nature of cyber threats means that knowing our own defenses is not enough. We must constantly monitor the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) of cybercriminals to ensure our defenses are updated and effective. Consider how often we see headlines about data breaches or ransomware attacks, even against well-defended organizations. These breaches are not a result of ignorance about the systems in place but often occur because organizations were unaware of emerging threats. A specific attack may target a new software vulnerability, or hackers may use an entirely new method of bypassing traditional security protocols. If we focus solely on our own systems without understanding the evolving enemy, every defensive measure we take may be temporary at best. As Sun Tzu implies, without knowledge of the enemy, every victory can be undermined by a future defeat. Finally, Sun Tzu warns, “If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.” This is the most critical warning for anyone working in cybersecurity. If we fail to understand both our own weaknesses and the evolving threats posed by cybercriminals, we are setting ourselves up for failure. A system without regular assessments, penetration testing, or threat intelligence is akin to a warrior who enters battle without knowing the terrain or the enemy's movements. Without understanding both ourselves and the enemy, even the most secure systems can fall prey to sophisticated attacks. This is particularly evident in my experience as the founder of Verian Cyber Security. Our work is a continuous cycle of learning and adaptation. We analyze the evolving tactics of phishing attackers, stay up to date with the latest cybersecurity trends, and test our own defenses through regular audits. This proactive approach is vital for staying one step ahead of potential attackers. Without this continuous learning and awareness, we risk overlooking a new threat that could result in devastating consequences. In conclusion, Sun Tzu’s wisdom in The Art of War offers invaluable insights into cybersecurity strategy. By knowing both the systems we protect and the evolving tactics of cybercriminals, we can build more resilient defenses and stay ahead of digital threats. The key to success in cybersecurity is not only building robust systems but also understanding the nature of the threats we face. By applying these principles, we can make the digital world a safer place for everyone.

From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by technology and how it shapes our lives. However, as I grew older, I became more aware of the risks that come with living in a digital world. As cyber threats continue to evolve, I realized there was a pressing need for skilled professionals who can protect individuals and organizations from malicious attacks. This led me to pursue cybersecurity as my field of interest. My goal is not only to protect but to create a safer digital environment for all. My journey into cybersecurity began with a deeply personal experience. A close friend of mine, who was in foster care, had her phone hacked. She was trying to stay in touch with her birth mother, but the hacker intercepted and manipulated her messages, cutting off her only form of communication. Watching her go through this violation of privacy was a wake-up call. It made me realize how vulnerable our digital lives are and how much we rely on technology for our most personal connections. I knew I wanted to be part of the solution. Motivated by this, I started learning about digital security and eventually founded Verian Cyber Security, a company focused on fighting phishing sites and protecting users from online fraud. Cybersecurity isn’t just a career choice for me—it’s a passion. The threat landscape is massive, with cybercrimes causing billions of dollars in losses every year. My long-term goal is to develop innovative tools that help detect and prevent cyber-attacks before they happen. I want to work on solutions that not only defend but also empower people to protect their information. Whether it’s a small business fighting off a data breach or a government agency stopping a major cyber-attack, I want to be the person who makes that defense possible. This field also aligns with my personal values. I’ve always been a problem-solver, and starting my own business has taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience. Cybersecurity is a constantly changing field that demands a mindset of continuous learning. Staying ahead of cybercriminals requires perseverance and the willingness to evolve—traits that I value deeply. I am constantly motivated to learn new techniques, follow industry trends, and push my own boundaries. In the future, I also hope to share my knowledge with others. I want to help inspire and mentor the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, especially those who might come from underserved backgrounds, just like my friend. By educating others about ethical hacking and the importance of digital security, I hope to create a ripple effect that leads to a safer, more secure internet for all. Pursuing a degree in computer science will allow me to build the technical foundation necessary to make a meaningful impact in cybersecurity. Through my education, experience, and dedication, I am determined to shape the future of the field and make a lasting contribution to the digital world.

From an early age, I’ve been fascinated by technology—the way it connects us, shapes our lives, and empowers us to solve problems. As I’ve grown, I’ve become particularly passionate about one area of technology: cybersecurity. The more I learned about the vulnerabilities of our digital world, the more I was determined to make a difference. This passion led me to start my own cybersecurity company in high school, focusing on the public service of identifying and taking down phishing websites. Through this venture, I have discovered my purpose: to use my skills in computer science to help protect people and organizations from digital threats. The decision to pursue computer science as my major was a natural one. Computer science is the backbone of the technological solutions that can mitigate online risks. I realized early on that while cybersecurity is my primary passion, it is deeply rooted in a solid foundation of computer science. In order to develop effective tools, strategies, and systems to protect users from cyberattacks, I need to have a deep understanding of algorithms, data structures, software engineering, and network security. By studying computer science, I am equipping myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a lasting impact in the cybersecurity field. Starting my cybersecurity business was an eye-opening experience. I was driven by the mission of making the internet a safer place, especially for vulnerable individuals who fall victim to phishing scams. By identifying and taking down phishing sites, I felt like I was doing more than just a business venture—I was contributing to the public good. The success of my business so far has only strengthened my resolve to continue my work and pursue a deeper understanding of the technologies and methods that could make my solutions even more effective. However, starting a business also highlighted the areas where I still have a lot to learn. While I have a strong grasp of the fundamentals of cybersecurity, I have come to realize that to truly make a difference, I need to further my education in computer science. College will provide me with the opportunity to study advanced topics such as encryption, machine learning, and artificial intelligence—fields that are becoming increasingly important in detecting and defending against cyber threats. I want to understand not only the technical aspects of cybersecurity but also how to innovate and create systems that can stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated attackers. My passion for cybersecurity is driven by a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to create change. The digital world is growing more complex, and with that complexity comes more opportunities for exploitation. I want to be part of the solution to that problem—not just as a business owner but as an expert in computer science who can contribute to the development of cutting-edge security technologies. By pursuing a degree in computer science, I will be able to take my passion to the next level and contribute to making the internet a safer place for everyone. In conclusion, my passion for computer science and cybersecurity is driven by a deep sense of purpose. I am committed to using my skills to combat the growing digital threats that affect individuals, businesses, and society as a whole. College will be the next step in equipping me with the technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities needed to succeed in this rapidly evolving field. I am excited to continue my journey, knowing that by pursuing this major, I am preparing to make a meaningful impact in the fight against cybercrime.

To me, going to college represents both an opportunity and a challenge. It is an opportunity to deepen my knowledge in the field I am passionate about—cybersecurity—and to develop the skills necessary to make a real difference in the digital world. It is also a challenge that I embrace, as I recognize that while I have made significant strides in my entrepreneurial journey, I still have much to learn. A college education will equip me with the technical expertise and the broader problem-solving skills needed to better my business and, ultimately, to contribute to changing the cybersecurity landscape for the better. In high school, I founded my own company with the goal of combating the increasing threat of phishing attacks. My business works by identifying and taking down phishing websites that deceive users into sharing sensitive information. While I have seen success in this endeavor, the process has also revealed that there is much more I need to understand. Despite my hands-on experience, I have encountered challenges that highlight the gaps in my technical knowledge. To continue advancing my company and providing effective solutions, I recognize that I need a stronger foundation in computer science and cybersecurity. College is the next logical step for me because it will allow me to develop this knowledge in a structured, comprehensive way. I am especially excited about the possibility of learning from professors who are experts in the field, collaborating with peers who share my passion, and gaining access to resources that will push the boundaries of what I can accomplish. Through my studies, I want to hone my understanding of advanced topics such as cryptography, data privacy, and network security, which will directly inform the work I do to protect users from cyber threats. Beyond technical expertise, college will help me grow as an entrepreneur. In my business, I have learned how to solve real-world problems, manage projects, and adapt to a rapidly evolving landscape. However, I know that to scale my efforts and turn my company into a more influential force in the cybersecurity industry, I need a broader skill set—one that includes knowledge in business strategy, leadership, and innovation. I believe that a degree in computer science will not only allow me to better understand the intricacies of the technologies I’m working with but will also give me the tools to think critically and strategically about how to expand my impact. Ultimately, my goal is to change the cyber world by making it safer for everyone. Phishing sites are just one example of how digital threats can harm individuals and organizations, but they represent a larger issue of trust in the online space. With the knowledge and skills gained in college, I plan to continue expanding my business, while also engaging in projects and collaborations that contribute to a safer, more secure internet. I aspire to help create innovative solutions that protect people’s digital lives and foster greater trust in the technologies we depend on. In conclusion, going to college means gaining the tools, knowledge, and networks I need to amplify the impact of my work. It is an opportunity to take my entrepreneurial venture to the next level, while also pursuing my passion for cybersecurity and contributing to a safer digital future. By completing a degree in computer science, I will be better prepared to turn my vision into reality and leave a lasting impact on the cybersecurity world.