Hello, My name is Kobe. This is my final year here at ODU.I am a transfer student from Tidewater Community College. Im currently majoring in cybersecurity and I am taking this course as apart of the cybersecurity program. I plan to graduate with an internship and hopefully begin my career in Cybersecurity.

Writing Assignment Two: Personal Narrative Essay

IDS 493

Professor Gordon-Phan

Kobe Trusty

19 November 2024

Old Dominion University

Abstract

This essay explores my narrative identity through an examination of key academic, work, and personal experiences that have shaped my career path in the field of cybersecurity. Beginning with my academic journey at Old Dominion University (ODU), I highlight courses and interdisciplinary programs that sparked my interest in cybersecurity, deepened my technical knowledge, and enhanced my problem-solving skills. I reflect on projects and assignments that challenged me to think critically and solidified my passion for protecting digital infrastructures.

My work and internship experiences are integral to my story, providing hands-on exposure to real-world challenges in the cybersecurity landscape. These roles allowed me to apply classroom knowledge, adapt to new situations, and develop essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking.

Additionally, I recount pivotal moments and turning points that influenced my decision to pursue cybersecurity as a major. Whether through inspiring mentors, breakthrough moments in technical projects, or impactful internships, these experiences have fueled my dedication to this field. The essay concludes by tying these elements together, demonstrating how my personal and professional development has prepared me for a future committed to innovation and security. This journey has not only defined my career path but also equipped me with the skills and resilience to keep evolving.

Have you ever wondered what drives someone to choose a career path full of complex challenges and constant change? For me, that spark ignited during moments of discovery, determination, and resilience. My name is Kobe Trusty, and I am a Cybersecurity major at Old Dominion University (ODU). From early coursework that introduced me to the intricacies of digital security to impactful internships that solidified my passion for protecting digital landscapes, my journey has been anything but ordinary. This narrative will walk you through the significant academic milestones, work experiences, and key events that have shaped my commitment to a career in cybersecurity. Through it all, I’ve discovered not just a career path, but a calling rooted in curiosity, problem-solving, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.

At Old Dominion University (ODU), several courses have significantly shaped my understanding and growth in cybersecurity. One of the foundational courses was IT 315: Introduction to Networking and Security. This course laid the groundwork by covering key concepts such as network architectures, services, protocols, and the various cyber threats and adversaries that target modern networks. The course provided a comprehensive overview of network infrastructures and the defense mechanisms essential for maintaining secure systems, which was instrumental in shaping my understanding of how data flows through networks and the importance of securing that flow. Another impactful course was IT 417: Management of Information Security. This course emphasized the critical role of both management and technology in developing and implementing an effective information security program within an organization. Topics such as risk assessment, threat identification, legal and ethical considerations, and the use of tools like firewalls and intrusion detection systems were covered in detail. The course’s focus on creating security policies and contingency planning allowed me to connect theoretical knowledge to real-world applications, further honing my strategic thinking in cybersecurity management. CYSE 300: Introduction to Cybersecurity provided a broad overview of the field, covering essential topics such as computer system architectures, critical infrastructures, and the fundamentals of cryptography and network security. This course helped me understand the core principles of cybersecurity and gave me the foundation to explore more advanced topics in subsequent coursework. Together, these courses helped build a solid technical foundation and understanding of the various dimensions of cybersecurity, from defense strategies to policy development. They have equipped me with the knowledge and skills to tackle the complex challenges that cybersecurity professionals face.

In addition to the core cybersecurity courses, interdisciplinary coursework has significantly influenced my perspective and career goals, broadening my understanding of cybersecurity’s role within larger societal, ethical, and business contexts. One course that played a pivotal role was IDS 300W: Interdisciplinary Theory and Concepts. This writing-intensive course examined the history, concepts, and application of interdisciplinary study. It allowed me to analyze how various academic disciplines intersect, helping me see cybersecurity not just as a technical field but as a dynamic area that intersects with law, business, ethics, and public policy. By understanding how interdisciplinary approaches can be applied to complex issues, I gained a deeper appreciation for how cybersecurity interacts with various sectors, such as healthcare, finance, and government, and how effective solutions often require collaboration across disciplines. Another important course was CYSE 494: Entrepreneurship in Cybersecurity. This course helped me realize the value of innovation within the cybersecurity field and inspired me to think beyond traditional roles. Through developing a business or nonprofit initiative, I learned how entrepreneurial thinking could lead to the creation of innovative solutions to cybersecurity challenges. The experience of working on real-world projects taught me that cybersecurity is not just about responding to threats but also about proactively addressing emerging needs in society, making it a field rich with opportunities for transformation and leadership. Together, these interdisciplinary courses shaped my career vision by emphasizing the importance of collaboration, innovation, and a holistic approach to cybersecurity. They motivated me to not only pursue technical expertise but also explore entrepreneurial and leadership opportunities that can drive meaningful change within the field.

When I first moved to Virginia from Southern California, the transition was jarring. I felt disconnected, as if I was living in a place where I didn’t yet belong. The cultural differences, combined with the challenge of making new friends, left me feeling like an outsider in a new world. The sense of unfamiliarity was overwhelming, and I struggled to find my footing. But it was in these moments of discomfort that I started to reevaluate my path and what truly excited me. I had always been intrigued by technology, but it wasn’t until I found Cybersecurity that things began to click. The field not only captivated me but also presented challenges that I was eager to tackle. The complexity of the subject protecting critical systems from evolving threats resonated with my desire for both intellectual stimulation and making a tangible impact. McAdams highlights the importance of the redemptive theme, where hardship or adversity transforms into growth or positive outcomes. This is exactly how I can see my journey. The initial struggle of feeling like an outsider in Virginia became the backdrop for my discovery of Cybersecurity. The frustration I felt from not immediately fitting in gradually shifted into a drive to succeed in something that gave me a sense of control and purpose. I wasn’t just adapting to my new environment; I was evolving and finding strength in a field that allowed me to apply my problem-solving skills and creativity in meaningful ways. Each course, assignment, and even failure became an opportunity for growth. I began to see myself as someone capable of overcoming challenges not just in the context of moving to a new state, but in the broader scope of my academic and professional future.

My journey toward a career in Cybersecurity has been deeply influenced by the opportunities I’ve had to work in the field through internships and jobs. These experiences not only helped me develop technical skills but also allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the field and my place within it. My first internship in Cybersecurity was an eye-opening experience. I had the chance to apply the knowledge I’d gained in the classroom to real-world challenges, working alongside seasoned professionals who taught me the nuances of the industry. I learned how to configure firewalls, conduct network penetration testing, and analyze security vulnerabilities. This role was foundational in confirming my interest in the field, as I saw firsthand the importance of securing systems against ever-evolving threats. The experience helped me grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Not only did I gain technical expertise, but I also learned the value of teamwork, effective communication, and strategic thinking skills that are essential in the field of Cybersecurity. This internship, where I navigated both technical tasks and interpersonal dynamics, served as the start of my narrative transformation: from someone who was just starting to learn about Cybersecurity to someone who was actively contributing to the security of digital systems. As I continued to refine my career interests, I secured another internship focused on Incident Response, where I worked to investigate security breaches and develop remediation plans. This role allowed me to take on more responsibility, sharpening my analytical skills and teaching me how to think critically under pressure. The complexity of investigating and resolving incidents gave me a sense of purpose and an understanding of the significant impact Cybersecurity can have on businesses and individuals alike. Through this experience, I developed a sense of confidence in my ability to handle high-stakes situations. I found that the process of defending against attacks and protecting sensitive data resonated with me on a deeper level. This experience, much like a redemption story, showed me that what initially seemed overwhelming managing security incidents was an area where I could thrive. This internship allowed me to discover a new layer of my identity as a motivated agent who sought to protect digital spaces, a path I had not fully considered before.

One of the most significant events that influenced my decision to pursue a career in Cybersecurity was a personal experience involving a family member. A few years ago, one of my relatives fell victim to a phishing scam that led to serious financial loss. This incident was eye-opening because it highlighted the very real risks that people face in the digital world, especially when it comes to identity theft and online fraud. The emotional toll it took on my relative, combined with the financial and time costs involved in recovering from the incident, deeply resonated with me. This event is a prime example of McAdams’ redemption theme, where a challenge like the scam served as a catalyst for transformation. Rather than simply being a negative experience, it motivated me to learn more about how these attacks work, how to defend against them, and how I could help others avoid similar situations. It was the spark that first got me interested in Cybersecurity, driving me to understand the importance of protecting sensitive data and personal information.

Reflecting on my journey into Cybersecurity, my path has been shaped by a combination of academic experiences, personal challenges, and hands-on work in the field. From the foundational courses at Old Dominion University to the transformative internships that provided me with real-world experience, each step has contributed to my growing understanding of the field and deepened my passion for protecting digital infrastructures. Along the way, significant events such as the phishing scam that impacted my family and my own transition to a new state have influenced not only my professional choices but also my personal growth and resilience. These experiences, when viewed through the lens of McAdams’ narrative identity theory, underscore the power of adversity in shaping one’s career and identity. The combination of academic learning, internships, and personal moments of realization has equipped me with the technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and motivation to pursue a career in Cybersecurity. As I continue my studies and enter the professional world, I am committed to using my experiences to make meaningful contributions to the field. My journey has not only defined my career path but has also instilled in me a sense of purpose and determination to continue evolving. With each challenge I overcome, I am more confident in my ability to make a positive impact on the security of the digital world and to contribute to a safer, more resilient future.

References

McAdams, D. P. (2008). The psychology of life stories. Review of General Psychology, 2(1), 42–58. https://doi.org/10.1037/1089-2680.2.1.42