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Seth Vandever

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Finalist

General information

Hobbies & Interests

  • Community Service And Volunteering
  • Hiking And Backpacking
  • Chemistry
  • Finance
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Cybersecurity
  • Board Games And Puzzles
  • Dungeons And Dragons
  • Rafting
  • Travel And Tourism
  • Exercise And Fitness
  • Mentoring
  • Coaching
  • Rock Climbing
  • Gardening
  • Yoga
  • Ice Skating
  • Coding And Computer Science
  • Reading
  • Coffee
  • Anime
  • Learning
  • Stocks And Investing
  • Dance
  • Hospitality
  • Geocaching
  • Education
  • Driving
  • Walking
  • Weightlifting
  • Biking And Cycling
  • Movies And Film
  • Ethics
  • Environmental Science and Sustainability
  • Mental Health
  • Comedy
  • Computer Science
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Research
  • Bowling
  • Science Olympiad
  • Sustainability
  • Volunteering
  • Gaming
  • Music
  • Advocacy And Activism
  • Biochemistry
  • Data Science
  • Biotechnology
  • Conservation
  • Speech and Debate
  • Horticulture
  • Agriculture
  • Architecture
  • Spirituality
  • Human Rights
  • Paintball
  • Scuba Diving
  • American Sign Language (ASL)
  • Horseback Riding
  • Machine Learning
  • YouTube
  • Mythology
  • Real Estate
  • Beekeeping
  • Exploring Nature And Being Outside
  • Nutrition and Health
  • Baking
  • Kayaking
  • Dirtbiking
  • Criminal Justice
  • Social Justice
  • Meditation and Mindfulness
  • Fitness

Reading

  • Adventure
  • Fantasy
  • Folk Tales
  • Gardening
  • Science Fiction
  • Science‎
  • Classics
  • Adult Fiction
  • Cultural
  • Folklore
  • Horror
  • Literary Fiction
  • Mystery
  • Novels
  • Epic
  • Thriller
  • Suspense
  • Young Adult
  • Short Stories
  • Romance
  • Philosophy
  • Humor

I read books multiple times a week.

Bio

My dream career has always been to go into digital forensics. A big part of what drew me to that field was because it combined several passions of mine. From my love of service towards my community as well as my love of computers and science. I pride myself on my ability to help others near and far. In fact, I would say that my biggest achievement, this far in life, has been my ability to make time to help others as well as communities in need no matter the sacrifice. I have always been volunteer oriented thanks to my loving father who served our nation for many years. He instilled in me the value of helping others. So, I was always that kid growing up who stepped up to the plate to help everyone and anyone who needed help. Once I got into high school, I joined a volunteer club and have always been in some volunteer organization in one form or another since then. Whether that was a leadership positions paving the way to make huge impacts on communities such as when I was in Kiwanis International or simply positions that contributed in other ways while still making strides to contributing to the greater good, such as database management for a small nonprofit organization like Family Futures.

Education

Southern New Hampshire University

Bachelor's degree program

2022 – 2025

Majors:
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General

Northern Virginia Community College

Associate's degree program

2015 – 2022

Majors:
  • Computational Science
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General

Mount Vernon High

High School

2010 – 2014

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Western Governors University, George Mason University, Drexel University
Majors of interest:
Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management, Computer Science, Computer Programming, Chemistry, Finance and Financial Management Services
Medical school interest:
No

Career

  • Tech Cybersecurity Specialist (Internship)

    Information Technology and Services · UBS

    Jan 2022 – Jan 2022

  • Tech Support Analyst

    Information Technology and Services · UBS

    Jan 2018 – Jan 2022

  • Shift Manager

    Food & Beverages · Starbucks

    Jan 2015 – Jan 2016

  • Licensed Sales Representative

    Insurance · GEICO

    Jan 2016 – Jan 2018

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Cybersecurity
Dream career goals:
senior cyber security analyst
Has nursing license:
No

Future Interests

  • Advocacy
  • Volunteering
  • Philanthropy
  • Entrepreneurship
Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship
As an individual who believes in giving back to the community, I am inspired by the positive impact that volunteering can have on the world. There is something extraordinary about dedicating your time and effort to a cause that is bigger than yourself. Whether helping those in need, making your community a better place, or advocating for positive change, there is no limit to what can be accomplished through volunteering. One of the ways I have worked to influence change in my community is by volunteering with a non-profit organization that provides resources and support to first-time mothers. This organization helps new mothers navigate the challenges of parenting by providing education and tools that help them give their newborns the most successful start in life. I was drawn to this organization because of its impact on the lives of new mothers and their babies. The organization helps ensure new mothers feel confident and prepared to raise their children in a healthy and nurturing environment by providing support and guidance. As a volunteer, I have helped maintain the organization's databases, ensuring that all data is accurately recorded and up-to-date. This has allowed the organization to effectively track the impact of its programs and measure their success. Additionally, I have worked with the organization to organize events and fundraisers, which help to raise awareness and generate support for their cause. Through my work with this organization, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact that volunteering can have on the lives of others. Another way I have worked to influence change in my community is by volunteering with academic honor societies to organize events that help the elderly community in my area. One event, in particular, was focused on teaching elderly members of the community about technology and how it can be used to assist in their day-to-day lives, such as staying in touch with family and friends, and managing their finances. We also provided information on how to stay safe from cyber-attacks and other digital threats, which can be a significant concern for elderly individuals who scammers often target. Through my work with these academic honor societies, I have connected with and positively impacted members of my community in meaningful ways. In addition, by sharing my knowledge and skills, I have been able to help others learn and grow, which is a gratifying experience. Overall, my volunteer experiences have taught me that giving back to the community is not only a selfless act but also an enriching one. Through my work with non-profit organizations and academic honor societies, I have been able to impact the lives of others positively and, in turn, make a difference in my community. Volunteering is a powerful tool for change, and I plan to continue giving back to my community in new ways as I accumulate new skills and experiences.
Valiyah Young Scholarship
I have always strived to achieve my academic and professional goals as a dedicated and hardworking individual. My academic goal is to obtain a cybersecurity and information assurance degree at Western Governors University. I am passionate about this field and believe it is crucial in today's society, where digital threats and cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly common. My ultimate professional goal is to work in the cybersecurity industry, using my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact and help protect organizations and individuals from cyber threats. Receiving this scholarship would make a significant difference in my pursuit of higher education. As a student, I am committed to working hard and achieving academic success. This is something that I have been maintaining for some time by successfully juggling being a full-time worker and a full-time student without any negative impacts. However, having been recently laid off and struggling to find work for months, the reality of pursuing my academic goals gets closer and closer to being postponed. This scholarship would assist in alleviating some of the financial burdens and allow me to focus more on my studies. In addition to my academic pursuits, I believe in giving back to my community. I have volunteered in various capacities over the years, including maintaining databases for a nonprofit organization that focused on providing first-time mothers with the resources to give their newborns the most successful start in life. I have also worked in organizing students in academic honor societies to volunteer and assist in community events, such as an event that assisted the elderly in using tech to assist in their day-to-day life more effectively and helping them stay safe from being victimized by cyber-attacks. These volunteer experiences taught me the value of giving back to my community and the impact that even small contributions can have. It also reinforced my passion for technology and its potential to impact people's lives positively. In the future, I plan to continue to give back to my community by utilizing the skills and expertise I gain in other volunteering efforts and using my knowledge to help others. Overall, I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my academic and professional goals, and receiving this scholarship would make a significant difference in my journey. I am committed to working hard and positively impacting my community. I can achieve my goals and make a difference in the world with dedication and perseverance.
Maverick Grill and Saloon Scholarship
As someone who has gone through a lot of personal growth and exploration, I have several attributes that make me unique. One of these attributes is my ability to empathize and connect with people from all walks of life. I deeply understand the importance of listening to and valuing other people's perspectives, which has helped me build strong relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Another attribute that sets me apart is my creative and innovative mindset. I have always been drawn to the arts, and I love using my creativity to come up with unique solutions to problems. This mindset will serve me well in my future cybersecurity career, allowing me to approach challenges from a fresh perspective and develop new ideas and strategies. Finally, my passion for social justice and advocacy is another attribute that makes me unique. I have always been committed to fighting for equality and standing up for marginalized communities, and I plan to continue this work in my personal and professional life. Primarily through my volunteer work, applying my skills and expertise to organizations that can make a difference in the causes I stand for. In terms of giving back to my community, there are several ways that I plan to do so. One way is through volunteering. I have always believed in the power of giving back, and I have volunteered for various organizations throughout my life. My most recent volunteer position was in managing databases for a nonprofit that aimed at giving first-time mothers the access to resources they needed to ensure their child's best chance at a healthy and prosperous life. As I develop new skills, I plan to continue applying my knowledge and volunteering for more organizations that align with my values and passions. Additionally, I plan to use my career as a way to give back to my community. I am passionate about using my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact, and I plan to seek career opportunities that allow me to do so. Whether working for a nonprofit organization or creating my own cybersecurity company that aims to help communities on a digital front, I can make a difference in the world. Overall, my unique attributes and passion for social justice will serve me well in my efforts to give back to my community. Whether it is through volunteering, using my career to make a positive impact, or advocating for causes I believe in, I am committed to making a difference in the world around me.
Pool Family LGBT+ Scholarship
Being part of the LGBTQ+ community has been a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. It is a community that is often marginalized and discriminated against, but it is also a community that is full of strength, resilience, and diversity. Being part of this community has allowed me to connect with others who share similar experiences and struggles, on top of finding support and solidarity. Growing up, I struggled with my identity and understanding my feelings toward people of the same gender. I felt confused and scared, not knowing how to express these feelings or whom to turn to for guidance. It was not until I discovered the LGBTQ+ community that I understood and accepted myself for who I am. Joining LGBTQ+ groups and attending events provided a sense of community and belonging. I was able to meet people who had similar experiences and struggles and who could provide support and guidance. Being part of this community allowed me to explore my identity and learn about the experiences of others. However, being part of the LGBTQ+ community is not always easy. Discrimination and prejudice still exist, and navigating a world that often does not understand or accept our identities can be challenging. I have experienced overt and subtle discrimination and have had to navigate situations where I felt unsafe or unwelcome. Despite these challenges, being part of the LGBTQ+ community has brought me immense joy and pride. It has allowed me to embrace my identity and celebrate the diversity and strength of our community. It has also inspired me to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and to fight against discrimination and prejudice. One of the most rewarding experiences of being part of the LGBTQ+ community has been the opportunity to support and uplift others. Whether it is through volunteering at LGBTQ+ organizations, participating in advocacy efforts, or simply being there for someone who needs support, being part of this community has allowed me to make a positive impact in the lives of others. In conclusion, being part of the LGBTQ+ community has been a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and advocacy. It is a community that has provided me with support, guidance, and a sense of belonging. Despite the challenges and discrimination that still exist, I am proud to be part of this community and to stand with others in the fight for equality and acceptance.
Career Search Scholarship
As someone focused on going into the cybersecurity field, I am currently exploring various career options that would allow me to utilize my skills and knowledge in this area. One potential career that I am considering is becoming a cybersecurity analyst. This role involves analyzing and evaluating an organization's security systems to identify and prevent potential threats and breaches. It requires a strong understanding of cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and risk management and the ability to work with different teams to implement security measures and protocols. Another potential career path that I am interested in exploring is cybersecurity consulting. In this role, I would work with organizations to assess their current security measures and identify areas for improvement. I would also provide recommendations and assistance in implementing new security systems and protocols. This role would allow me to work with different clients and industries, providing a diverse and challenging work environment. I am also interested in cybersecurity management, which involves overseeing and directing an organization's cybersecurity strategy and operations. This role requires strong leadership and communication skills and a deep understanding of cybersecurity threats and risk management. As a cybersecurity manager, I would be responsible for developing and implementing security policies and procedures, managing security teams, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards. These potential cybersecurity careers will bring me fulfillment for several reasons. First, the field of cybersecurity is constantly evolving, which means there will always be new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow. This aspect of the field excites me and motivates me to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in cybersecurity. Second, cybersecurity is a critical component of modern society, with businesses and individuals alike relying on secure systems and networks for their operations and personal lives. Knowing that my work in cybersecurity can have a real impact on people's lives and the functioning of businesses and organizations is incredibly fulfilling to me, especially as I can make a continued difference for individuals and organizations around me. A big part of the fulfillment I would bring out of working in cybersecurity would involve my turnaround of taking the skills and expertise I gain and applying it to my volunteer jobs. Volunteering brings me a sense of purpose, and I can utilize my strengths to help others. For example, I have been working in the I.T. sector for four years, and my most recent volunteer position has been regularly managing databases for a nonprofit organization. In summary, I am currently exploring various career paths in cybersecurity, including cybersecurity analyst, consulting, and management. These careers will bring me fulfillment due to the constant evolution of the field, the critical importance of cybersecurity in modern society, and the high demand for qualified professionals.
Wellness Warriors Scholarship
As a college student, managing my wellness has been a crucial aspect of my overall success and well-being. Juggling academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments can be overwhelming and stressful. However, I have found several ways to manage my personal wellness that have helped me to stay motivated, focused, and energized throughout my academic journey. One of the ways in which I manage my fitness is through regular exercise. Dedicating time to work out, whether through weightlifting, running, or yoga, helps me reduce stress and clear my mind. Exercise also improves my overall health and fitness, improving my mental and emotional well-being. Incorporating exercise into my daily routine has been a game-changer in my productivity and motivation as a student. Another way I manage my wellness is by practicing self-care. This includes engaging in activities that make me happy and reduce stress, such as spending time with loved ones, reading, watching movies, or taking a relaxing bath. Self-care helps me recharge and avoid burnout, which is crucial in maintaining my academic performance and well-being. I also prioritize my nutrition and hydration. Eating a balanced diet and drinking enough water is essential for maintaining my energy levels and focus throughout the day. I eat various fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to fuel my body and mind. I also limit my consumption of processed foods and sugary drinks, as these can lead to crashes in energy and mood. Another way I manage my personal wellness is by getting enough sleep. Prioritizing rest and relaxation is critical for my academic success and overall well-being. I set aside time each night to wind down, limit screen time, and create a calming environment to promote better sleep quality. Adequate sleep helps me to stay alert and focused during classes, exams, and other academic obligations. Maintaining my personal wellness has been a significant factor in my academic success. Taking care of myself makes me more motivated, focused, and energized to tackle my academic responsibilities. Regular exercise and self-care practices help me reduce stress and prevent burnout, while proper nutrition and hydration fuel my body and mind to function optimally. Getting enough rest and relaxation helps me to stay alert and focused, which is crucial for academic success. Overall, managing my personal wellness has been a crucial aspect of my academic journey. By prioritizing my health and well-being, I have maintained a high academic performance while avoiding burnout and stress. In addition, making time for exercise, self-care, proper nutrition and hydration, and adequate sleep has helped me to succeed as a student and maintain my overall well-being.
Jean Antoine Joas Scholarship
As an aspiring cybersecurity professional, I am passionate about utilizing technology to enhance security and privacy measures for individuals, organizations, and governments. Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have developed an in-depth understanding of various aspects of cybersecurity, including threat intelligence, risk management, incident response, and digital forensics. In addition, I have acquired multiple certifications, such as CompTIA, Google IT Support Professional, and multiple Microsoft certs, to enhance my skills and knowledge in the field. I am committed to positively impacting the world through my cybersecurity career. Cybersecurity threats are becoming increasingly prevalent and sophisticated, and they can have significant consequences on our world. My skills and knowledge can help mitigate these risks and make the digital world safer for everyone. One of the ways in which I plan to make a positive impact is by working with organizations and governments to improve their cybersecurity posture. I understand that many organizations and governments face unique cybersecurity challenges, and I am committed to developing tailored solutions to address these issues. Solutions can involve conducting risk assessments, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing appropriate security controls and measures to protect against cyber-attacks. Another way in which I plan to make a positive impact is by increasing awareness of cybersecurity issues among individuals and organizations. A large number of cybersecurity threats can be prevented by implementing basic security measures and adopting best practices. Therefore, I plan to work with organizations and individuals to educate them on the importance of cybersecurity and provide them with the necessary knowledge and tools to protect themselves as well as their digital assets. I also plan to contribute to the cybersecurity community by conducting research and developing new solutions to address emerging threats. Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field, and it is essential to stay up to date with the latest developments and trends. Therefore, I plan to participate in events such as cybersecurity conferences or forums to stay informed and share my knowledge with others. In conclusion, my passion for cybersecurity and desire to make a positive impact on the world drives my career aspirations. I am committed to working with organizations and governments to improve their cybersecurity posture, increasing awareness of cybersecurity issues, and contributing to the cybersecurity community through research and development. With my skills, knowledge, and determination, I can make a meaningful contribution to the field of cybersecurity and help create a safer digital world for everyone.
JADED Recovery Scholarship
Drug and alcohol addiction has had a significant impact on my life. My brother, an inspirational figure in my life, struggled with addiction for years before ultimately passing away from an overdose. His addiction was an ongoing battle; he went in and out of rehab several times. Each time he entered rehab, we all hoped that he would come out clean and stay that way, but unfortunately, that was not the case. His repeated relapses took a significant toll on our family. We were all worried about him and constantly living in fear that we might receive the news of an overdose. The cause and effect of his unconquerable demons have profoundly affected my beliefs, relationships, and career goals. My brother's addiction made me realize how easy it is for someone to become trapped in the cycle of addiction. I saw firsthand how addiction could take over a person's life, causing them to lose sight of their goals and aspirations. It evolved my beliefs to become more empathetic towards others who may be struggling with addiction and has given me a greater appreciation for the challenges their families face. In addition to affecting my beliefs, my brother's addiction also had a significant impact on my relationships. Our family was deeply overwhelmed by his addiction, and we all struggled to support him through his trials and tribulations. However, his passing brought us closer together, and we have found solace in each other during his sudden passing. I have also become more intentional about nurturing my relationships with my loved ones, realizing how important it is to cherish the very little time we have left together. My brother's passing also served as a catalyst to inspire me to pursue my career goals in cybersecurity. My brother and I have always dreamed about joining the same field and being a cybersecurity duo. However, his death made me realize that life is too short and that I needed to make the most of the time I have left. Therefore, I wanted to honor my brother's memory by positively impacting my nieces and nephews by showing them that addiction does not have to be the end of his legacy and all the dreams and aspirations that my brother once held. In conclusion, my experience with my brother's addiction and subsequent passing has had a significant impact on my beliefs, relationships, and career goals. In addition, it has made me more empathetic towards others who are struggling with addiction, brought my family closer together, and inspired me to pursue my career aspirations. While I will always miss my brother and his impact on my life, his memory drives me to provide a nurturing environment and a good influence on my family and myself.
Cat Zingano Overcoming Loss Scholarship
Losing a close family member is one of my most challenging experiences. Unfortunately, I have had to endure the loss of two of the most influential people in my life: my dad and my older brother. My dad died of a heart attack, and my brother passed away from a drug overdose. Their passing profoundly impacted me, causing me to reevaluate what matters most in my life and what I want to "fight" to achieve. When my dad passed away, I was devastated. He was my rock, and I looked up to him in many ways. My dad passed away first, and from his passing, I realized how important family is and how much they truly mean to me. I started prioritizing spending time with my loved ones and made it a point to stay in touch with my immediate family more frequently. Unfortunately, my brother's passing was even more challenging to deal with. He struggled with addiction for years, and his passing was premature and incidental. Losing him made me realize that life is too short and unpredictable and that I needed to make the most of the time I have left. So, I decided to go back to college and pursue a degree to help me better myself and provide for my family. My brother and dad always encouraged me to do my best and pursue my dreams, and I wanted to honor their memory by accomplishing all of my dreams and life goals that I had allowed to slip from my grasp. In the wake of their passing, I realized that what matters most to me is family and personal growth. My top priorities are spending time with my loved ones and working towards a better future for myself and my family. I also realized that I wanted to fight for a life worth living that would make my dad and brother proud. I want to be someone who inspires others and makes a positive impact on the world. In conclusion, losing my father and brother was a devastating experience that has shaped my priorities and outlook on life. Their passing made me realize how important family is and how much I want to achieve in my life. By returning to college, I'm working towards a better future for myself and my loved ones and fighting to make the most of the time I have left. I know my dad and brother would be proud of me, and I'm determined to live a life that honors their memory.
Novitas Diverse Voices Scholarship
Public relations, as a discipline, is all about managing the reputation and image of an individual or organization in the eyes of the public. In an age where diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the forefront of conversations, it is essential for public relations professionals to leverage the power of diverse voices to shape public narratives. This essay will explore the impact of diverse voices in public relations and how it can shape public narratives. Diversity in public relations means bringing together people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to work on communication strategies that will appeal to diverse audiences. The power of diverse voices in public relations is significant because it allows for a broader range of perspectives and ideas to be included in the decision-making process. Leading to a more nuanced and thoughtful approach to communications, where the messaging resonates with a wider range of people. One of the most significant impacts of diverse voices in public relations is the ability to challenge dominant narratives. In the past, public relation campaigns often relied on the perspectives and experiences of a specific group of people, leading to messaging that was often one-dimensional and exclusive. However, with diverse voices, public relation professionals can challenge these dominant narratives and create more inclusive messages representing different communities. Moreover, diverse voices in public relations can help build trust with audiences. With a diverse team, a public relations campaign can be developed with an understanding of the cultural nuances and sensitivities of different communities. This helps to create more authentic messaging that resonates with audiences, resulting in increased trust and credibility for the organization. Another impact of diverse voices in public relations is the ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level. Public relations campaigns that include diverse voices can tap into the cultural experiences and nuances of different communities, creating messaging that is more relatable and emotionally impactful. Allowing for a deeper connection between the organization and its audiences, resulting in an increased engagement and loyalty. Finally, the impact of diverse voices in public relations can extend beyond individual campaigns. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion in public relations, organizations can create a culture of inclusion and belonging that extends to all areas of business. Leading to increased employee engagement and retention and a more diverse and innovative workforce. In conclusion, the power of diverse voices in public relations cannot be understated. From challenging dominant narratives to building trust and connecting with audiences, diverse voices can have a significant impact on shaping public narratives. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion in public relations, organizations can create messaging that resonates with a broader range of people and build a culture of inclusion and belonging that extends beyond individual campaigns.
Bold Great Books Scholarship
My favorite book is Off to Be the Wizard by Scott Meyer. It combines my love for computers, science fiction, fantasy, as well as time travel. This book is the total package for any nerd or geek out there who loves any of those topics. I found not only this book but it’s entire series to be hours of enjoyment. I will try not to spoil the story, but it follows a young adult as he discovers that the world is actually a computer program which he has stumbled across and gained access to while rummaging around in an ATT&T server. Hijinx ensues and he finds himself teleporting back to medieval England to become a wizard. Part of why I like this book is I found many similarities in the main characters. The main character is dorky, quirky, and at times he may have the best intentions, but things do not always play out to what he expects. Normally I am not drawn to books which the character are reminiscent of myself, as I tend to be drawn to new perspectives and differences to which I may have never imagined before. However, I found this book at a time I had lost a sense of who I was. This book helped to bring me back to my senses and reminded me of my love of adventure and nerdiness. I am so thankful for having found this book and I will go on to read it again and again, especially when I feel I may have lost my way in this world.
Bold Bravery Scholarship
I live boldly by knowing that no matter what sacrifice I must make today, will not keep me from achieving my goals tomorrow. A great example of this was when I was in college the first time around and my dad passed away less than a week after he and mom signed on a new house. I ended up jumping ship to save my mom from drowning in grief and financial ruin. I found myself taking up a full-time career I was not entirely satisfied with so that I could help keep her a float as well as myself. Years later I have found myself on higher ground and have boldly set sail again on my college journey, with absolute bravery in this new post-covid world of academics we are living in. Finding myself adapting to new online courses I would have never imagined opting for before in the past.
Bold Mentor Scholarship
When I took up being Vice President of Service for my chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, I didn’t expect it would go beyond simply advocating for volunteering and putting in some time with my fellow members helping various organizations. However, I found that it has turned into a beautiful mentorship with several of our members as I have become a role model to them. My hope is that they will go on to develop a passion for volunteering and helping their communities blossom where every they go in life. That no matter how stressed out or busy they may find themselves in the future, that they will never be too busy to lend a hand to their fellow neighbors and nonprofits, no matter how big or small the task is. I also hope that even if they don’t find a passion in volunteering that they will at least go on having made connections and experience that bolsters their character and leads to success. At the end of the day I wish to give them the tools they need to live their lives the way they want.
Glider AI-Omni Inclusive Allies of LGBTQ+ (GOAL+) Scholarship
Change is a natural part of life for everyone. Each one of us will grow up on our own timeline of maturity independent of our age and the environment we grew up in. That is the same for me as well. Growing up in a religious family as a gay son is not without its fears. For many years I felt the need to keep my identity a secret like so many others in our community. It was never any thing my parents or siblings had done that made me worry about opening to them, but simply the portrayal of the consequences that happens to so many LGBTQ+ members in the world when they come out. It was fear that held me back and limited my growth and fear that made me shrink myself so small for the chance of being easier to be loved by my family if my identity ever came out. It wasn’t until I was eighteen and living on my own did, I come out to my parents. I needed the security that should things turn ugly that I had a place to go. However, they accepted me and for the first time did I know what true regret felt like. I had gone so many years under guise of fear that I didn’t see my family for who they truly were, and I limited my ability to grow for so many years by being the one to create the emotional divide between my own family and me. So, for future generations, I hope that you will not be misguided by fear. I hope you will have every opportunity to grow and not limit yourself because of the possible consequences you may face if you came out to your family and hopefully one day, we will have a world in which one would never have to feel any ramifications of coming out be it to their family or any other. That is what I hope to help contribute to one day. I am currently majoring in cyber security because I have always dreamed of working in digital forensics solving crimes and making communities a better place. I put a lot of emphasis on volunteer work and helping communities as one thing my father instilled in me was a sense of duty to serve the people. Post-undergraduate, you can be sure that I will continue to assist in making all communities including our LGBTQ+ community a better place for everyone.
Seth Vandever Student Profile | Bold.org