The date was July 4th, 2022. At the pivotal age of 14, I, Symone McDonald, experienced the opportunity to step into the MacDill Air Force Base located in Tampa, Florida. From interacting with cybersecurity professionals who worked at the base to being exposed to the highly advanced security systems, it was certain that suddenly, I understood my calling: to safeguard the digital world and my country by pursuing in cybersecurity. During the fall of 2024, I transferred from Winthrop College Preparatory Academy to Bloomingdale Senior Highschool to participate in their Air Force Junior ROTC program, which would furthermore give me the chance to strengthen my knowledge and skills to prepare for the United States Air Force Academy, which would thus guide me into the field of cybersecurity. Essentially, cybersecurity professionals are heroes as they perform their duties tirelessly to protect individuals, organizations, and even entire nations from insidious cyber threats. As a child that derives from a single-parent household, with my mother having to work extra hours just to make ends meet, my mother would always tell me one thing: “It is not how you start, but how you finish.” Throughout my high school journey, I have held membership in several honor societies, including Mu Alpha Theta and Rho Kappa, and have displayed excellence as an exemplary leader in my Air Force Junior ROTC unit, honored with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Award and the United States Air Force AFJROTC Top 2% Performers Recognition. While I am currently undertaking studies toward the attainment of my CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 certificate, I would like to not only serve and defend my country in honor of my mother, but also spread a message: the sky is the limit. To young girls who may feel that they are not capable or limited based on society’s standards to older women who are challenged in male-dominated careers, I am keen on providing a safe-space as an empowerment tool for women to express their ideas and career milestones, in order to build their skills and confidence, reinforcing the belief in their capabilities to succeed in their chosen fields. Whether the means for this tool involves utilizing open discussions with women sharing their challenges and successes within society, formulating a women’s empowerment club in my local area, or even through advocating for greater rights for women within the workplace, one thing is for certain: I am certain to make a meaningful impact.

Learning to drive is not just about getting from point A to point B; it is about gaining independence, expanding your horizons, and mastering a vital life skill, and on a chill September day, I remembered the incident plain as day. Our class had just entered the gravel area of the driver's education lot at our school, and we were preparing to practice our reversing skills in our six different groups. In my group, we started cautiously, each student meticulously adjusting the steering wheel, constantly checking the mirrors, and painstakingly guiding the vehicle backward in a controlled manner under the watchful eye of our instructor. Then, after my turn, it was one of my peer's turns to switch. She was relatively shy when she had the wheel and would regularly be bullied and cursed at by a group of kids in a nearby vehicle. As I peered through the car mirror, I could see tears in her eyes as they belittled her while she was trying her best. I had enough. After lessons, I took it up with my instructor and informed him on how this group of kids would constantly make fun of my peer while she was trying to perfect her driving skills. The next day and so on, I heard no more yelling or cursing from that group anymore, and my peer began to progress sufficiently and more confidently in her driving. I firmly believe that it is vital to safeguard individuals, especially the youth, from the dangers of bullying online and in person in order to create a caring environment where those who feel vulnerable know that they are loved and valued, free from fear and intimidation. In person, I have been involved in numerous anti-bullying programs that comprise teaching the youth on how to spot and combat bullying both online and in person, utilizing guest speakers, and participating in group activities that aim to build healthy, confident bonds within the youth. When I encounter cyberbullying online, I minimize the act by promoting positivity, informing a trusted guardian, reporting content, and being open as a tool for the victim to receive emotional support. Witnessing the vulnerability of people, especially youth, to societal dangers and threats fueled my passion for cybersecurity, inspiring me to pursue a career protecting individuals in the digital realm. While I am currently undertaking studies toward the attainment of my CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 certificate, I am faced with financial challenges. As a child that derives from a single-parent household, with my mother having to work extra hours just to make ends meet, the expenses of college, including tuition, books, and housing adds immense pressure not only to my mother but also to my future. However, despite the financial challenges we face, my mother would always tell me one thing: “Believe in yourself, give your best, and do not give up.” Throughout my high school journey, I have held membership in several honor societies, including Mu Alpha Theta and Rho Kappa, and have displayed excellence as an exemplary leader in my Air Force Junior ROTC unit, honored with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Award and the United States Air Force AFJROTC Top 2% Performers Recognition. In addition, I am applying for numerous scholarships and part-time jobs while juggling extra classes and budgeting for my senior year. Receiving this scholarship will not only provide me financial aid for my academic goals but will allow me to continue being a positive light that shelters those that are vulnerable to the tactics of bullying, especially the youth. I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and compassionate community.