My name is Cole Grubbs, and I am deeply passionate about pursuing a degree in cybersecurity at Southeastern University. From a young age, I have loved working with computers and exploring how systems operate. I have always been fascinated by the challenge of identifying vulnerabilities and finding ways to solve complex problems, which sparked my interest in cybersecurity. This field is not just a career choice for me—it is a true passion, and I am committed to building a future in it so I can make a meaningful impact while supporting my future family. Attending Southeastern University has long been a dream of mine. I initially planned to go straight into college, but life had other plans. I chose to dedicate time to a mission trip, which was an incredibly rewarding experience that strengthened my faith, my sense of purpose, and my desire to serve others. When I returned, I faced unexpected family issues that required my attention, and I made the decision to live independently while managing financial responsibilities on my own. I found myself unemployed for a time, and even now, I am barely able to cover my monthly bills. These circumstances made it impossible for me to pursue my college education immediately, but I have never given up on my dream. My fiancé attends Southeastern University, and we had always hoped to attend together. While our paths have temporarily diverged due to my financial situation, receiving this scholarship would allow me to finally join her at Southeastern and pursue my education in a way that aligns with my goals and passions. It would not only provide me with the opportunity to gain the skills necessary to succeed in cybersecurity, but it would also give me the stability to build a future for both of us and eventually for our children. I recognize that my background may not be the most traditional and that my circumstances may make me seem like an unlikely candidate, but I am dedicated, hardworking, and driven by a genuine passion for technology and cybersecurity. I want to pursue a degree not simply for a career, but because I genuinely enjoy the work, the problem-solving, and the constant learning that comes with it. This scholarship represents more than financial support—it represents the chance to follow my dreams, to invest in myself, and to lay the foundation for a future where I can contribute meaningfully to my community, my family, and the field of cybersecurity. Thank you for considering my application. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this scholarship, and I hope to honor the support it provides by committing myself fully to my education, my chosen career, and my long-term goals.

My faith has shaped every part of who I am—but especially the way I lead. I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about being in front or having authority. It’s about serving others, putting people first, and leading with humility. Jesus is the perfect example of that kind of leadership. He was bold, but also compassionate. He spoke truth, but always with love. That’s the kind of leader I want to be. Growing up in a law enforcement family, I’ve experienced a lot—both good and hard. My dad was shot in the line of duty when I was nine years old, and it changed everything. I’ve walked through fear, anger, confusion, and moments of questioning God. But through that pain, I’ve seen how God redeems broken things. I’ve seen how He gives purpose to the parts of our stories that we’d rather forget. That perspective is what drives the way I lead others. One of the most meaningful leadership moments for me happened at an event through Bless The Badge, a ministry that supports law enforcement families. I helped run the event and got to speak to a group of police officers about being a cop's kid. I shared part of my story: the fear I felt when my dad was hurt, how I wrestled with my faith, and how God showed up even when I felt like I had nothing left. I talked about how reading Scripture and being surrounded by people who pointed me back to Jesus helped me heal. That experience confirmed something I’ve felt for a long time: I believe God is calling me to be a youth pastor. I want to lead students through the highs and lows of life, point them to Jesus, and remind them that their story matters. So many young people are walking through trauma, loneliness, or pressure, and they need someone who understands and who will walk with them. I want to be that kind of leader—someone who creates a safe space for them to wrestle with hard questions and discover real faith. This is why I’m going on a discipleship and mission trip with YWAM this summer. I will be training then serving internationally—stepping into adulthood while learning how to live on mission. I know it’ll stretch me. I know it’ll grow me. And I know it’s another step toward becoming the kind of leader God is calling me to be. My faith is not just something I believe—it’s how I lead, love, and live.

My dad served in the military before I was born, and that was just the beginning of his life of service. After his military career, he became a police officer and later served as a detective. When I was 9, he was shot in the line of duty. He survived, went back to work, and eventually retired with over 25 years in law enforcement. That experience shaped my view of sacrifice, danger, and what it means to serve something bigger than yourself. But what’s inspired me even more is what came after. My dad, along with my mom, took over Bless The Badge—a nonprofit that supports law enforcement families and marriages. They didn’t just keep it going; they completely transformed it. They expanded its reach through national conferences, created new resources, and made it more impactful than ever. Their leadership showed me that entrepreneurship isn’t always about profit—it’s about purpose. Watching them take a nonprofit and reimagine it with such dedication and growth taught me that it’s not just about the work you do—it’s about the change you make. I’ve learned that entrepreneurship can create real, lasting impact, especially when it’s driven by service and a desire to help others. That lesson pushed me to start businesses of my own. I currently run three: 2Brothers Technology (tech support), Cole’s Lawncare (mowing and landscaping), and Gulfside Creative (photography and media). I’ve also launched a kids ministry under Bless The Badge, creating space for other law enforcement kids like me to be seen, heard, and supported. I know how it feels to grow up with silent pressure and constant worry. Helping others through that is something I care deeply about. My parents’ entrepreneurial journey—and my dad’s military service—have had a major impact on my educational path. I plan to pursue a degree in business and cybersecurity because I want to protect others like my dad did, just in a different way. I’m also exploring ministry, specifically youth ministry, because I know what it’s like to feel lost. I rededicated my life and was baptized in April. Now I want to help others navigate their own struggles. Growing up in a home shaped by both service and innovation has shown me the power of using your story to make a difference. My dad’s military service taught me discipline and purpose, and my parents’ work with Bless The Badge taught me how to turn hardship into impact. That’s the legacy I want to carry forward.