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Keith Benolken

985

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

My name is Keith, and I love getting people out of their comfort zone. I always have enjoyed people getting used to things they were once nervous about and sharing the experience with others. I was once timid and very introverted but I slowly got used to putting myself out there because I moved a lot when I was a kid. Since I was always the new kid I was very hesitant like many others would be, but then I learned what I love doing which is meeting new people. Another thing I love and am very passionate about is sharing videos that I edit and make on YouTube, something about people enjoying my content really makes me happy and it's something that I would love to base my future on.

Education

Potomac State College of West Virginia University

Bachelor's degree program
2023 - 2027
  • Majors:
    • Computer and Information Sciences, General

Hampshire High School

High School
2019 - 2023

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Entertainment

    • Dream career goals:

    • Cashier/ setup

      Spring valley farm
      2022 – Present2 years

    Sports

    Cross-Country Running

    Varsity
    2022 – 20231 year

    Awards

    • n/a

    Track & Field

    Varsity
    2022 – 20231 year

    Awards

    • n/a

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      WVU — Sold Concessions at Football Games
      2022 – 2022

    Future Interests

    Volunteering

    Entrepreneurship

    Science Fiction Becomes Science Fact Scholarship
    CIS is the crux of transitioning from science fiction to science fact. They play a critical role in technological innovations in different fields, connecting the gap between imagination and actualization. To begin with, CIS experts use data analytics and machine learning to convert the theories of AI from science fiction into real-world applications. They design algorithmic systems and develop predictive modeling methods to facilitate automation, customized recommendations, and data-driven management decisions. Evidently, this is seen in virtual personal assistants, and recommendation systems, among others to bring us closer to a world where machines think and act intelligently. CIS is once again at the core when it comes to making science fiction another reality in the blockchain and cryptocurrency arena. Decentralized digital currency is no longer a futuristic idea; CIS professionals have played an important role in developing blockchain technology, building its security and ensuring its scalability and usability. The invention of cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin has altered our perception of finance and digital transactions completely. CIS specialists are transforming VR/AR technologies, which were long imagined in sci-fi movies, into a reality that becomes an integral part of our everyday lives. They devise the infrastructure, software, and user interfaces, which are vital for the realization of immersive experiences in sectors such as gaming, education, and healthcare. Such technologies provide the limits of the interaction of humans with digital information and each other. In addition, CIS specialists are participating in the creation of quantum computing, a notion previously considered a part of science fiction. Quantum computers can solve complex problems at speeds that are not achievable with classical computers. Quantum algorithms and infrastructure are being developed by CIS professionals, which will lead to breakthroughs in fields such as cryptography, materials science, and drug discovery that were once unthinkable. In other words, CIS professionals are building the future, making science fiction to science facts. They contribute by providing expertise and innovation to technology development. These technological progress transform once-distant dreams into reality which benefits society in diverse ways and it shapes the technology world. In addition, CIS professionals play a prominent role in the cutting-edge field of space exploration and robotics, which are full of science-fiction-oriented ideas. This is because they are instrumental in designing and programming robots used in space missions, autonomous vehicles on Earth, and industrial automation systems. Furthermore, the robots have not only enabled the exploration of other celestial bodies, but they also bring about effectiveness and convenience to human life. With each passing day, science is reaching new heights, and now the stories of science fiction are turning into everyday life, pushing the limits of space exploration through technology, and using robots to control our world. The contribution of CIS expertise towards exploring the future of exploration and automation has been vital in taking mankind to where there were hitherto unknown possibilities of expansion.
    Chadwick D. McNab Memorial Scholarship
    However many years ago, I worked in a project, which actually ignited the technology passion in me. Its primary purpose was to help mentor underprivileged learners by providing comprehensive online learning materials available throughout the globe. Breaking down barriers hindering access to quality education, the initiative sought to provide adequate mentorship and encouragement for the youth to fulfill their desires in life. My job was more inclined towards working on making it as convenient as possible for students to have access to a diverse range of sources of education as an interface. Students could interact with mentors who were aligned with their interest areas for their personal and academic growth. The critical issue that would provide a secure conversation for all would be their security and anonymity. It was an uplifting project – one that showed the possibility for meaningful, material change in many children’s lives by providing them with a proper education and guidance. By virtue of its nature, technology had bridged gaps, making knowledge available where it is needed the most, with global collaborations to come into play in order to brighten up mankind’s future. This undertaking put into my mind how powerful is the technology that brings changes even on life. There are more hidden behind these lines of code and designs – moving stories about people that inspire me and make me believe even more that technology is good since it changes lives for better. I have to express my gratitude for the project that ignited my interest in technology several years ago. The project sought to have a long-lasting impact by providing comprehensive online learning resources to needy students. The main aim of this program, which spanned a decade, was to eliminate obstacles that hindered the access to quality education for young individuals by providing significant mentorship and guidance, thus realizing their dreams. My position involved in creating an easy-to-use interface. The platform sought to do more than that, linking students with mentor-friends on their wavelengths, boosting both academic and personal development. This enabled students to interact safely and securely with other members, anonymously for absolute safety and privacy. This proved to be a truly inspiring undertaking, as it held the prospect of bringing about real, concrete changes to the lives of tens of thousands of young students. This was evidence of how technology could successfully overcome distances and offer knowledge to people in need. We were building through global collaborations brighter future for humanity. This experience drove home to me how powerful technology can be in effecting change for the betterment of people’s lives. There were stories beyond the lines of codes and the design complexities of transformation and growth, stories that still fuel my beliefs in the power of technology for good and change life stories.
    VNutrition & Wellness’ Annual LGBTQ+ Vitality Scholarship
    A major in Computer Information Systems offers a multitude of avenues through which you can make a meaningful contribution to society. One prominent pathway is the development of technology solutions for nonprofit organizations. By leveraging your CIS expertise, you can create information systems that streamline operations and enhance efficiency, enabling nonprofits to better serve their missions. This can lead to more effective fundraising, improved resource allocation, and ultimately a greater positive impact on the communities they support. Another vital area where CIS majors can make a difference is in healthcare informatics. Your skills can be instrumental in managing patient data, designing electronic health records systems, and ensuring the security of medical information. This contribution directly translates into better patient outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and enhanced privacy protections. In an increasingly digitized healthcare landscape, your expertise is invaluable for advancing the quality and accessibility of healthcare services, benefitting society as a whole. Lastly, your CIS major can lead to innovations in cybersecurity, safeguarding individuals and organizations from cyber threats. In an era where digital security is paramount, your role in developing robust security measures and promoting online safety is vital. By protecting data and systems from malicious actors, you help maintain trust in digital interactions and protect critical infrastructure, contributing to a safer and more secure society. In essence, a Computer Information Systems major equips you with the skills to address contemporary societal challenges across multiple domains, making a tangible and positive impact on the world. Additionally, a Computer Information Systems major can play a pivotal role in addressing environmental sustainability challenges. Your knowledge can be instrumental in creating information systems that monitor and optimize energy consumption, waste reduction, and overall environmental impact. By developing smart grids, enhancing logistics, and providing data-driven insights, you contribute to a greener future and the global effort to combat climate change. These innovations are crucial for building a more sustainable and ecologically responsible society. Furthermore, your expertise can extend to promoting financial inclusion. Many individuals around the world remain underserved by traditional financial institutions, but technology has the potential to bridge this gap. As a CIS major, you can contribute by designing accessible and secure financial systems, including mobile banking applications and microfinance platforms. By doing so, you empower marginalized populations, enable economic growth, and foster financial literacy, thereby enhancing social and economic equity within society. In conclusion, a major in Computer Information Systems is not just about acquiring technical skills; it's also a pathway to serve and positively impact society. Through your work in nonprofit support, healthcare, cybersecurity, environmental sustainability, financial inclusion, and more, you have the potential to create innovative solutions that address pressing societal challenges. By leveraging your expertise, you can contribute to building a more inclusive, sustainable, and secure world, where technology serves as a force for positive change.