• Critical Thinking & Leadership -> During the Maritime IT Summit, I used my critical thinking and leadership skills to help organize and run the ODU / COVA CCI information table. Before the event, I helped plan volunteer coverage by making and sending invitations, set up two-hour shifts, and make sure the table would be staffed throughout the summit. This meant thinking ahead, communicating with other students / faculty, and adjusting plans when needed. During the event, I took on a leadership role by helping coordinate volunteers, keeping the table organized, and stepping in whenever extra help was needed. I also used critical thinking when talking with attendees, answering questions about the program, and adjusting how I explained things depending on who I was speaking with. Overall, the experience helped me strengthen both skills in a real-world, professional setting. These skills directly apply to government and military cybersecurity environments, where professionals must make quick, informed decisions, lead collaborative efforts, and clearly communicate complex technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Teamwork -> A big part of the ODU Cyber Clinic, is working in a team alongside other students for a business and deliver tailored recommendations for cybersecurity practices the business should implement. Working in this environment allowed me to collaborate closely with others and improve my ability to work effectively within a team. Teamwork is essential in government technology and military settings, where cybersecurity operations rely on coordinated efforts between analysts, engineers, and leadership to respond effectively to threats and protect critical systems.
  • Problem-solving -> My experience as a cybersecurity intern for a global satellite and communications company, required to analyze complex issues and develop practical cybersecurity solutions. This opportunity, allowed me to improve my problem-solving skills and helped me work better under pressure. Strong problem-solving abilities are critical in government and military cybersecurity roles, where professionals must quickly analyze threats, assess risks, and implement effective solutions to safeguard national and organizational infrastructure.
  • Determination -> Drives my entire educational and professional journey at ODU. I believe determination to be one of the most important skills one must have. Talent without hard work and determination means nothing. This determination motivates me to continuously develop my technical knowledge and professional skills, preparing me for the demanding and evolving challenges present in government technology and military cybersecurity careers.

Together, these skills reflect my growth as a cybersecurity professional and demonstrate my readiness to contribute to government technology and military cybersecurity environments, where critical thinking, collaboration, resilience, and problem-solving are essential to protecting systems and responding to evolving cyber threats.