Hello, my name is Billy Teta, and I began my academic journey in 2021 as an adult learner. My first year of college was particularly tough, marked by the unexpected passing of my father, Joseph Teta Sr. His loss was a profound emotional blow and significantly impacted me, both personally and academically. Losing my dad at the beginning of my second semester was devastating. It felt like my world was turned upside down, and I struggled to find my footing. Despite the overwhelming grief, I knew I had to persevere. My father was incredibly proud of the progress I had made, and I didn’t want his belief in me and my achievements to be in vain. I chose to channel my sadness into determination and honor his memory by continuing to work hard. I drew strength from the values he instilled in me—perseverance, dedication, and a genuine care for others. Navigating this period required a lot of persistence. Balancing academic responsibilities with the emotional weight of my loss was challenging, but I reached out for support from campus resources, leaned on mentors and professors, and relied on my family and friends. Despite the difficulties, I stayed focused on my goals, motivated by the desire to honor my father’s legacy and build a positive future for myself and those I care about. The concept of Agape love—unconditional, selfless love—was something my dad embodied throughout his life. He always showed kindness and compassion to others without expecting anything in return. His actions taught me the importance of offering support and empathy, not just for myself but for everyone facing their own struggles. This principle has become a guiding force in my own life. Giving back to my community has become a central part of who I am. I actively seek ways to support and uplift others, whether it’s through helping fellow students or being there for friends and family in times of need. By sharing my experiences and extending a helping hand, I strive to create a more supportive and compassionate environment. The hardship of losing my dad has strengthened my resolve and deepened my commitment to my goals. It has also reinforced my dedication to living out Agape love and giving back to others. I’ve learned that resilience and compassion are powerful tools for overcoming adversity. My goal is to use these lessons to continue growing, inspiring others, and making a positive difference, no matter the obstacles I face.

Hello! My name is Billy Teta, and I am a first-generation college student pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations. Pursuing higher education without the guidance of parents who have experienced it themselves has been both a challenge and a profound opportunity. Being a first-generation student means I’m paving the way not only for myself but also for future generations in my family. My parents did not attend college, which has left me to navigate the complexities of higher education largely on my own. This journey has required me to be resourceful and resilient, learning how to tackle academic challenges and manage the responsibilities of college life without the benefit of firsthand parental experience. Without the benefit of parental guidance, I’ve had to seek mentorship from professors, advisors, and peers, and develop a strong sense of independence. Each step has been a learning experience, from understanding financial aid processes to balancing coursework with part-time work to support myself. This has taught me valuable lessons in perseverance and self-reliance, shaping my approach to both my academic and professional goals. Financial barriers have also been a significant hurdle. My parents’ limited job opportunities have meant that I’ve had to rely on scholarships, part-time work, and careful budgeting to afford my education. The financial strain has been challenging, but it has also reinforced my determination to succeed and to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way. Despite these challenges, being a first-generation student has fueled my drive to excel and create a lasting impact. My goal is to work in IT/network security for organizations like NASA or ESA, where I can contribute to safeguarding critical data and supporting advancements in aerospace technology. This ambition reflects my desire to make a meaningful impact in a field that combines my passion for technology with my commitment to protecting vital information. The support from scholarships like this one plays a crucial role in helping first-generation students like myself navigate the financial and academic challenges of higher education. By alleviating some of the financial burdens, scholarships allow us to focus more on our studies and career goals, and less on the stress of managing costs. In summary, being a first-generation student has profoundly shaped my academic journey and career aspirations. It has taught me the value of independence, perseverance, and the importance of creating a legacy for future generations. I am committed to leveraging my experiences and education to achieve my goals and make a positive impact in my field. Scholarships like this one are instrumental in helping students like me overcome barriers and reach our full potential.

Choosing Cybersecurity as my field of interest has been a decision deeply rooted in both my personal experiences and professional aspirations. My journey back to education, after a 12-year hiatus and various roles in the workforce, was significantly influenced by my recent position as a Voter Registration Clerk. There, I saw firsthand the critical role of IT and cybersecurity in protecting sensitive information. This experience, coupled with my interactions with dedicated IT professionals, ignited a passion within me for the cybersecurity field. The realm of cybersecurity fascinates me because it combines complex problem-solving with the opportunity to safeguard vital information systems. In an era where digital threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, I am driven by the challenge of defending against these threats and ensuring the integrity of data. My ultimate goal is to work in IT/network security for esteemed organizations like NASA or ESA, where I can contribute to securing critical data and supporting groundbreaking advancements in aerospace technology. This ambition reflects my commitment to pushing boundaries and making a significant impact on a grand scale. Creating an impact in cybersecurity involves more than just technical skills; it requires a dedication to continuous learning and a proactive approach to emerging threats. To achieve this, I am focused on ongoing self-improvement and professional development. Earning my Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity and CompTIA Security+ certification has provided me with a strong foundation. However, I am committed to pursuing further certifications and advanced training to stay ahead in this ever-evolving field. This commitment to lifelong learning is essential for staying at the forefront of cybersecurity and effectively addressing new challenges. On a personal level, my motivation to excel in cybersecurity is closely tied to my desire to create a secure and supportive environment for my family. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in my educational journey, and I am dedicated to ensuring their well-being and stability. This personal goal drives me to work diligently and persistently toward achieving my professional aspirations. Additionally, my non-traditional student background has provided me with a unique perspective and a strong sense of resilience. Balancing the demands of education with other responsibilities has honed my time management skills and reinforced my determination. These qualities will help me navigate the challenges of a career in cybersecurity and contribute effectively to the field. My choice to pursue cybersecurity is driven by a combination of personal experiences and a desire to make a significant impact. By focusing on continuous learning, pursuing advanced certifications, and leveraging my unique perspective as a non-traditional student, I am committed to achieving my professional passion. My goal is to contribute meaningfully to the field of cybersecurity and support the advancement of critical technologies, all while ensuring a secure and supportive environment for my family.

Hello there! My name is Billy Teta. I am an adult student pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Cyber Operations with a focus on Defense and Forensics. My return to education began after a 12-year break and various roles in the workforce, including my most recent position as a Voter Registration Clerk. Working closely with Active Duty Military, their families, and U.S. citizens residing abroad, I was inspired by our dedicated IT staff to further my education. Returning to school as a non-traditional student has been incredibly rewarding. I was given the amazing opportunity to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in Cybersecurity from Chandler-Gilbert Community College, and now I am in my senior year at the University of Arizona with the goal of diving deep into my studies and getting the most out of my final year. My passion for cybersecurity comes from a desire to make a significant impact by being a reliable and essential part of progress. I’m particularly drawn to the challenge of protecting critical data and systems on a large scale. My ultimate goal is to work in IT/network security for prestigious organizations like NASA or ESA. Though this is an ambitious goal, I hope it reflects my commitment to pushing boundaries and aiming high. Currently, my focus is on creating a secure and supportive environment for my family. Their unwavering support has been crucial in my academic journey, and I’m dedicated to ensuring their well-being and stability in return. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the past few years is that self-improvement is a lifelong journey. Each step in my education has reinforced that growing and evolving is an ongoing process. I’m committed to being the best version of myself and continuously seek opportunities for growth. Earning my CompTIA Security+ certification has provided a solid foundation and ignited my passion for cybersecurity. I am inspired to pursue additional certifications and continue my personal and professional development. Making my loved ones proud and advancing my skills are driving forces in my life. In summary, my journey as an adult learner is defined by a deep passion for cybersecurity, a commitment to self-improvement, and a dedication to personal growth. I’m excited to leverage my skills and experiences to make a positive impact in the field of cybersecurity and achieve my goals. My non-traditional student background has only strengthened my resolve to excel and contribute meaningfully.

I'm Billy Teta, an adult learner on a journey to pursue a career in cybersecurity with determination and enthusiasm. I believe that my unique path, commitment to personal growth, and experiences have all played a role in shaping my passion for this field. Returning to the world of education after a 12-year hiatus has been a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. I've had the privilege of earning an associate's degree in cybersecurity at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, and I'm currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in Cyber Operations at the University of Arizona. I've also earned the CompTIA Security+ certification, which has provided me with a solid foundation in the field and deepened my interest in cybersecurity. I believe these achievements represent my unwavering commitment to this field. My interest in cybersecurity stems from a desire to make a meaningful impact in the world. My ultimate dream is to work in the field of IT/network security for NASA, safeguarding critical data on a grand scale. This aspiration is ambitious, but it reflects my belief in aiming high and pushing my boundaries. In the short term, my more realistic goal is to provide a secure and nurturing environment for my family, prioritizing their well-being above all else. I'm passionate about self-improvement, not only for myself but also for those around me. I value the journey of personal growth and actively seek opportunities to enhance my knowledge and skills. Additionally, making my loved ones proud is a driving force for me. Their support and belief in my journey inspire me to persevere through the challenges faced by adult learners. Community improvement and support are core aspects of my character. I strive to be generous with my knowledge and support, actively participating in activities that contribute to the well-being of my community. As a non-traditional student, I bring a unique perspective to my academic environment and work to create an inclusive and supportive atmosphere for individuals of all backgrounds and ages. In summary, I'm an adult learner with a passion for cybersecurity, and my journey is marked by continuous self-improvement and dedication to my community. I'm committed to using my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on both a professional and personal level. My path as a non-traditional student is unique, and it's these experiences that reinforce my desire to excel in the field of cybersecurity and contribute to the betterment of my community and society as a whole.

When I thought about the qualities that make me who I am, I posed quite a riddle for the Sorting Hat. Gryffindor might seem like the most thrilling choice, with its daring and heroism, and Ravenclaw aligns well with my studies in IT and Cybersecurity. However, upon deeper reflection, I've found that the truest resonance with my inner values and strengths lies with Hufflepuff. Let me explain why I believe this house is the perfect match for me. Understanding, Kindness, and Loyalty: I genuinely believe that understanding, kindness, and loyalty are at the core of what makes us human. Hufflepuff, I've discovered, embodies these qualities remarkably well. I strive to be empathetic and understanding in every interaction, leading to a reserved yet kind demeanor. It's not just about politeness; it's about genuinely caring for others. My loyalty is unwavering to those who reciprocate, and my friends and family can always count on my support. Hufflepuff's emphasis on loyalty and treating everyone with respect and fairness aligns seamlessly with my values. The Value of Balance: While Hufflepuff resonates with my understanding and loyalty, I also appreciate the house's value of balance and fairness. I firmly believe in trying to understand every side of an opinion before taking a firm stance. It's easy for people to feel excluded when others insist on being right and everyone else is wrong. Hufflepuff's fair-minded approach, where every opinion is valued and respected, mirrors this belief. It fosters an environment where differing viewpoints are acknowledged, encouraging constructive dialogues and mutual understanding. The Pursuit of Growth: My desire to learn and better myself is a cornerstone of my character. It's not about becoming an expert in one subject but about understanding many different subjects and finding the right answers, just as Hufflepuff values. This aligns perfectly with my commitment to personal growth, driven not only by self-improvement but by the betterment of my family. Hufflepuff's dedication to personal growth and hard work aligns wholeheartedly with my values. Sanity and Well-being: Amid these values, I understand the importance of maintaining one's mental health and happiness. Family and friendship are vital, but one's well-being should never be compromised. I firmly believe that no one's toxic behavior is worth sacrificing your sanity. Hufflepuff's emphasis on kindness, fairness, and well-being makes it a house that values not just outward kindness but inner peace as well. In conclusion, I believe that my understanding, kindness, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to personal growth make me a perfect fit for Hufflepuff. The core values of this house, including loyalty, fairness, hard work, and the pursuit of personal betterment, closely mirror my own beliefs and aspirations. If the Sorting Hat considered my beliefs, it would undoubtedly find a natural home for me in Hufflepuff, where I can continue to embrace and embody these values in all that I do.