Secure.
Innovate.
Empower.
Why I Joined LeADERS
I joined the LeADERS program because it aligned perfectly with my academic pathway in cybersecurity and my commitment to high-impact learning experiences. The program provided a structured way for me to connect my internships, research, outreach, and coursework into a unified professional identity. I wanted to challenge myself in new environments, strengthen essential skills, and document the work that has shaped my growth as a cybersecurity professional. Earning the LeADERS distinction represents more than completing courses. It shows my dedication to leadership, diversity, innovation, research, and communication. Being part of this program has helped me understand how each of my experiences contributes to my long-term goal of becoming a cybersecurity leader focused on protecting communities and advancing the field.
How LeADERS Shaped My Growth
Participating in the LeADERS program strengthened my confidence as a cybersecurity professional and helped me connect the meaning behind each academic and experiential achievement. Through my internship at the ODU Cybersecurity Clinic, my research roles at Purdue University and Old Dominion University, my diversity and leadership coursework, and my experience with entrepreneurship in cybersecurity, I gained a deeper understanding of how interdisciplinary skills form the foundation of effective cyber defense. The program taught me how to communicate complex ideas clearly, work with diverse groups, create solutions for real-world problems, and approach challenges with creativity and resilience. Overall, LeADERS helped me clarify my career goals, strengthened my professional identity, and prepared me for graduate study in cybersecurity and future industry roles.
Category: Leadership (L)
Course Completed: PHIL 355E – Cybersecurity Ethics
What this category means in cybersecurity:
Leadership in cybersecurity requires ethical decision-making, responsibility, and the ability to guide individuals and organizations through complex digital challenges. Ethical leadership ensures that security solutions protect people, respect privacy, and promote trust.
My experience:
In Cybersecurity Ethics, I examined real-world ethical dilemmas related to malware, surveillance, artificial intelligence, data collection, and cyber warfare. I learned how ethical frameworks guide responsible behavior in professional cybersecurity environments.
Impact and skills:
-
Ethical reasoning
-
Responsible decision-making
-
Understanding the social impact of cybersecurity
-
Professional integrity
Career relevance:
This category prepared me to lead with integrity as I enter the cybersecurity workforce and pursue my master’s degree. It strengthened my ability to approach threats, technologies, and policies with both technical and ethical awareness.
Category: Academic Internship (A)
Course Completed: UNIV 068 – Internship (ODU Cybersecurity Clinic + Brooks Crossing iLab)
What this category means in cybersecurity:
Applied internships allow students to practice technical, analytical, and communication skills in real environments. Cybersecurity requires hands-on experience to understand threats, systems, and community needs.
My experience:
I completed internship hours through the ODU Cybersecurity Clinic and Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab. I provided cybersecurity outreach to K through 12 students, supported small businesses with digital safety assessments, and participated in hands-on teaching, community programs, and educational workshops.
Impact and skills:
-
Instruction and public engagement
-
Community cybersecurity education
-
Digital literacy communication
-
Applied cybersecurity support
-
Professional collaboration
Career relevance:
These experiences prepared me for real-world cyber defense work and inspired my commitment to community-centered cybersecurity. They directly support my goal of advancing cybersecurity awareness and pursuing graduate research.
Category: Diversity (D)
Course Completed: CPD 408 – Global Leadership
What this category means in cybersecurity:
Cybersecurity professionals work with diverse teams, cultures, perspectives, and global systems. Understanding diversity improves communication, teamwork, and ethical decision-making across borders.
My experience:
In Global Leadership, I learned how culture shapes leadership styles, problem-solving, and collaboration. Through discussions and case studies, I developed a deeper appreciation for inclusive practices and cross-cultural communication.
Impact and skills:
-
Cultural competence
-
Inclusive teamwork
-
Globe-aware decision-making
-
Leadership across diverse groups
Career relevance:
As cybersecurity operates globally, this experience improved my ability to work with diverse stakeholders and strengthened my identity as a collaborative security professional.
Goals Upon Graduation
As I complete my bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity and continue into my master’s program, my primary goal is to strengthen my technical expertise while contributing meaningful solutions to real security challenges. I aim to expand my skills in malware analysis, cyber defense strategies, and secure system design as I prepare for advanced graduate research. In the immediate future, I plan to build on the work I began through my internships, research projects, and outreach by pursuing roles that allow me to analyze threats, support organizations, and develop innovative approaches to digital security. Long term, I aspire to work as a cybersecurity researcher or analyst who helps protect businesses, communities, and critical systems from emerging threats. Through continued learning, community engagement, and professional growth, I am committed to becoming a leader who advances cybersecurity knowledge and strengthens digital safety for others.
Category: Entrepreneurship (E)
Course Completed: CYSE 494 – Entrepreneurship in Cybersecurity
What this category means in cybersecurity:
Entrepreneurship encourages innovation, problem-solving, creativity, and the development of new cybersecurity solutions.
My experience:
Entrepreneurship in Cybersecurity exposed me to the process of designing cybersecurity services, evaluating market needs, and developing solutions for technical problems. I analyzed case studies of startups and learned how cyber professionals bring new ideas into the industry.
Impact and skills:
-
Innovation in cybersecurity
-
Problem-solving and idea development
-
Business thinking for tech solutions
-
Understanding cyber markets and user needs
Career relevance:
This category improved my ability to think creatively and build solutions that meet real-world security challenges. It supports my long-term goal of contributing to advanced cybersecurity research and solution development.
Category: Research (R)
Courses Completed: POLS 425W – Cyber Strategy and Policy
Additional Research Experience: Purdue NSF REU (MalFusion), ODU PHC CyberFusion
What this category means in cybersecurity:
Research is essential for advancing security technologies, studying threats, and developing innovative defense methods.
My experience:
I completed structured academic research in Cyber Strategy and Policy, where I analyzed modern cyber threats, national security, and defense strategies. Outside the course, I conducted high-level research at Purdue University on MalFusion, a hybrid ransomware detection model, and developed CyberFusion at ODU through the Perry Honors College.
Impact and skills:
-
Research writing and academic communication
-
Technical investigation and analysis
-
Understanding cyber strategy and national defense
-
Machine learning and malware analysis fundamentals
Career relevance:
Research has shaped my professional identity and prepared me for a cybersecurity master’s program. My work positions me for future research roles in ransomware defense and cyber policy.
Category: Writing (W)
Course Completed: IDS 300W – Interdisciplinary Theory & Concepts
What this category means in cybersecurity:
Cybersecurity professionals must communicate clearly, document findings, write reports, and translate technical ideas for non-technical audiences.
My experience:
IDS 300W helped me strengthen my academic writing, argumentation, and analytical skills. I learned how to write clearly, structure research papers, and communicate across disciplines.
Impact and skills:
-
Clear technical writing
-
Academic research skills
-
Professional communication
-
Interdisciplinary thinking
Career relevance:
Writing is essential for cybersecurity reporting, documentation, and research publication. This course improved my ability to present complex ideas in a professional way.
Teaching Today for a Smarter, Safer Tomorrow.
Introduction
I am a cybersecurity student at Old Dominion University continuing into the Cybersecurity master’s program. My academic work, research experiences, and community engagement have shaped a professional identity focused on digital protection, ethical innovation, and service. I have gained experience in malware analysis, AI-driven threat detection, cybersecurity education, and hands-on STEM instruction through the Brooks Crossing Innovation and Opportunity Center, the ODU Cybersecurity Clinic, and the NSF-funded REU program in AI-empowered cybersecurity.
My professional philosophy centers on protecting people and organizations through knowledge, integrity, and practical solutions. I believe that cybersecurity is a public responsibility, and creating safer digital environments requires both technical expertise and a commitment to community support.
In the short term, I aim to strengthen my expertise in malware analysis, AI-based detection systems, and digital forensics. In the long term, I aspire to become a cybersecurity analyst or researcher who develops solutions to enhance security for small businesses, public agencies, and communities.
About LeADERS
The LeADERS program, which stands for Learning through Active Discovery, Engagement, Reflection, and Showcase, encourages students to develop professional skills through meaningful academic and community experiences. The program helps students connect their coursework, internships, research, and service to a larger purpose while building a strong foundation for future careers.
I joined the LeADERS program because it aligns with my goals as a cybersecurity student who values hands on learning and community impact. The program allows me to document my growth, reflect on the experiences that shaped me, and demonstrate my readiness for advanced study and professional work.
Earning the LeADERS distinction is significant because it recognizes a commitment to leadership, civic engagement, research, and service. It highlights the skills and experiences that define my development as a cybersecurity professional and presents them in a clear and meaningful way.
Reflection on Professional Development
My LeADERS experiences have played an important role in shaping my growth and identity as a cybersecurity professional. Serving as a Program Assistant at Brooks Crossing allowed me to support K through 12 learners, develop accessible STEM lessons, and strengthen my communication skills. Through the ODU Cybersecurity Clinic, I worked directly with small businesses to help them understand cybersecurity risks and adopt safer practices. These experiences taught me how technical knowledge can create real benefits for communities.
My research experience in the NSF-funded REU program expanded my understanding of AI-based cybersecurity, malware analysis, and machine learning. It helped me develop confidence in solving complex problems and guided my interest in advanced cybersecurity research.
Across all these experiences, I learned the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and continuous learning. They helped me understand how cybersecurity connects to education, community needs, and emerging technology. These insights support my goal of contributing to a safer digital world and continuing my development through the Cybersecurity master’s program.
Leadership
Brooks Crossing Innovation and Opportunity Center – Program Assistant Intern
Leadership plays an important role in cybersecurity and STEM education because professionals must guide others, communicate clearly, and help people understand complex ideas. During my internship at Brooks Crossing, I led hands-on makerspace sessions for K through 12 students, teaching them how to use tools like Tinkercad, 3D printers, and coding activities. I worked closely with students, encouraged creativity, and supported them as they developed confidence with new technologies.
Through these responsibilities, I learned how to lead groups, adapt lessons for different learning styles, and maintain a positive learning environment. I also gained experience organizing events, assisting with program delivery, and helping families engage in educational activities. This experience strengthened my communication, teamwork, and leadership skills, which are essential for success in cybersecurity and future roles where I will need to guide clients, teach users, and communicate technical information clearly.
Applied Work-Based Learning
ODU Cybersecurity Clinic – Cybersecurity Consultant
Applied work-based learning is essential in cybersecurity because the field requires real experience solving real problems. Through the ODU Cybersecurity Clinic, I worked with small businesses and community organizations to help them strengthen their digital security. My responsibilities included conducting cybersecurity assessments, identifying vulnerabilities, reviewing policies, and preparing recommendations that clients could understand and implement.
This experience helped me build confidence in applying cybersecurity concepts to real situations. I learned how to communicate risks to non-technical audiences, collaborate with teammates, and approach problems with a practical mindset. Working directly with clients taught me how cybersecurity supports business operations and how important it is to protect organizations that may not have access to large IT resources. These experiences support my career goals by preparing me for roles in cybersecurity consulting, security analysis, and digital risk management.
Diversity
Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab – Community STEM Education
Diversity matters in cybersecurity and education because technology impacts people from every background. At Brooks Crossing, I worked with students of different ages, cultures, skill levels, and learning needs. I created welcoming, inclusive learning experiences by adjusting activities, offering personalized support, and encouraging creativity in every student.
This experience taught me the importance of understanding different perspectives and meeting learners where they are. I strengthened my ability to explain technology in simple terms, support nervous learners, and create a positive environment where everyone felt included. Working with diverse groups improved my empathy, communication, and patience. These are essential skills for cybersecurity professionals who must work with a wide variety of users, clients, and communities.
Entrepreneurship
Innovation, Program Development, and Educational Impact
Entrepreneurship involves taking initiative, developing new ideas, and creating value for others. Throughout my work at Brooks Crossing and the Cybersecurity Clinic, I contributed to program improvement, lesson development, and hands-on learning opportunities that supported community growth. I helped create activities, refined instructional approaches, and adapted STEM content to be more engaging and accessible for students.
In the Cybersecurity Clinic, I strengthened my entrepreneurial mindset by working with real clients and learning how cybersecurity protects growing businesses. I learned how to think creatively, identify needs, and develop practical solutions. These experiences taught me how innovation supports both education and cybersecurity, preparing me for future roles where I will design secure systems, develop solutions, and help organizations improve their digital practices.
Research
NSF REU Researcher at UMKC, Purdue University, and Perry Honors College
Research is central to cybersecurity because new threats require new methods of detection and defense. My research experience spans multiple competitive NSF-funded programs and university projects that strengthened my expertise in AI-driven security, malware analysis, and secure computing.
At the University of Missouri–Kansas City, I researched Generative AI, large language models, and graph neural networks for cybersecurity tasks such as intrusion detection, phishing detection, and code vulnerability analysis. I gained experience applying advanced models to real security problems and learned how AI can support defensive strategies.
At Purdue University, I focused on mobile and cloud security, data privacy, malware analysis, penetration testing, and adversarial AI. I worked in testbed environments that exposed me to real-world challenges in mobile device protection and cloud data security. This work contributed to my skills in threat modeling, secure system evaluation, and practical security research.
Through the Perry Honors College Undergraduate Research Program at Old Dominion University, I expanded my work on ransomware detection. I studied hybrid static and dynamic analysis, using tools such as Cuckoo Sandbox and Ghidra to investigate malware behavior. This project led to my publication, “MalFusion: A Hybrid Approach to Ransomware Detection,” which was accepted into IEEE MASS 2025.
These combined experiences taught me how to design research questions, analyze datasets, develop machine learning models, and communicate findings through presentations and written reports. Research has shaped my long-term career goals and encouraged me to continue developing as a cybersecurity researcher in the Cybersecurity master’s program.
Service-Learning
Brooks Crossing – Community Programs & Outreach
Service-learning is important because it connects academic knowledge to community impact. At Brooks Crossing, I supported events, assisted families, and helped deliver hands-on educational programs that encouraged interest in STEM. I guided learners through creative projects, helped them explore new technologies, and promoted safe, responsible digital practices.
This experience taught me how community programs rely on clear communication, patience, and willingness to support others. I learned how to work with diverse age groups, adapt activities, and contribute to a supportive learning environment. Service-learning strengthened my commitment to helping others and showed me how cybersecurity education can inspire future generations. These lessons will continue to guide me as I work to protect people, support communities, and promote digital safety.
Work Samples
Work Sample 1: STEM and Cybersecurity Lesson for K through 12 Students
Artifact:
A multi-slide STEM and cybersecurity outreach presentation created for K through 12 students during my role at the ODU Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab. The lesson introduces basic cybersecurity concepts, digital safety, and career pathways through interactive activities.
Skills demonstrated:
instruction, digital literacy teaching, communication, cybersecurity awareness, community engagement, curriculum design
Professional development impact:
This experience strengthened my ability to communicate cybersecurity topics to non-technical audiences, supported my growth as a STEM educator, and reinforced my commitment to community outreach.
Work Sample 2: Cybersecurity Clinic Assessment Report
Category Connection: Applied Work-Based Learning, Entrepreneurship
This assessment report was completed for a small business through the ODU Cybersecurity Clinic. It included data gathering, risk identification, policy review, and a set of recommendations for improving the client’s cybersecurity posture.
Skills demonstrated: risk analysis, documentation, teamwork, client communication, security assessment
Professional development impact: enhanced my confidence in applying cybersecurity concepts in real environments and taught me how to support organizations that need practical and understandable security solutions.
Work Sample 3: MalFusion – Hybrid Ransomware Detection Framework
NSF REU Research Project at Purdue University | IEEE MASS 2025 Acceptance
Artifact:
MalFusion is a hybrid ransomware detection system developed during the NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates at Purdue University. This project combines static and dynamic analysis features extracted from Ghidra and Cuckoo Sandbox to train a machine learning model for ransomware classification. The research resulted in a manuscript accepted for presentation at IEEE MASS 2025.
Skills demonstrated:
malware analysis, Python coding, reverse engineering with Ghidra, sandbox-based behavior profiling, machine learning, research writing
Professional development impact:
This project established the foundation of my interest in ransomware detection. It strengthened my technical research abilities and taught me how to investigate malware safely. The work also allowed me to collaborate with Purdue faculty and produce my first peer-reviewed publication.
Work Sample 4: CyberFusion – Advanced Ransomware Analysis Tool
Artifact:
CyberFusion is a continuation of my Purdue research, created through the Perry Honors College Undergraduate Research Program. The project expands on MalFusion by adding automated workflows, improved data preprocessing, multiple classifier options, and a more flexible feature fusion pipeline. The full codebase is available at:
Skills demonstrated: software design, automated malware analysis pipelines, model refinement, feature engineering, GitHub version control, research independence
Professional development impact: CyberFusion demonstrates my ability to extend past research and develop stronger solutions. It shows my growth from structured REU research to more independent work. This project prepared me for graduate-level cybersecurity research and supported my transition into the Cybersecurity master’s program at ODU.
Stay connected.
Welcome to a platform where cybersecurity becomes more than a skill—it's a passion. Let's embark on this transformative journey together. Welcome aboard, Cyber Defender!