Growing up, I was always fascinated by the worlds of computer science and mathematics. I was first introduced to computers in the 7th grade, and from that moment on, I knew that technology would play a major role in my future. I loved the way that computer science allowed me to solve problems and create new things, and I found mathematics to be an easy subject that helped me understand the logic behind everything.

         My passion for technology and mathematics led me to pursue a career in finance, where I spent many years working with technology on a daily basis. I was always drawn to the financial industry because it was fast-paced and always changing, and I loved the challenge of working with numbers and technology to help my clients make sound financial decisions.

         However, as I delved deeper into the financial industry, I began to realize the significant threat that cyberattacks posed to financial institutions. I saw that many of my clients were vulnerable to these threats, and I knew that I needed to do something to protect them and their sensitive information. I started to educate my clients on ways to protect themselves while using online or mobile banking, and this naturally led me to develop a passion for cybersecurity.

          I knew that in order to make a real difference in the world of cybersecurity, I needed to take my skills to the next level. That's why I enrolled in the Columbia University Cyber Security Boot Camp, where I gained hands-on experience in network security, ethical hacking, vulnerability assessment, and incident response. I built real tools — deploying Splunk SIEM environments, conducting simulated network attacks, and automating security pipelines using Microsoft Azure and Docker. The boot camp didn't just teach me technical skills; it showed me that cybersecurity requires communication, leadership, and teamwork just as much as it requires technical expertise.

         Building on that foundation, I went on to earn my Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations from the University of Maryland in May 2026 — a milestone that represents years of balancing full-time work with full-time dedication to this field. Today I hold a CompTIA Security+ certification and have hands-on experience with tools including Wireshark, Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Hashcat, Python, Bash, and PowerShell across both Linux and Windows environments.

         I am currently pursuing federal cybersecurity roles with agencies including DISA, CISA, and the Department of Homeland Security, as well as research and development opportunities with organizations like the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. My goal is to apply my technical skills in service of protecting the systems and infrastructure that our nation depends on — and to be part of the next generation of cybersecurity professionals defending that mission.

          As a cybersecurity specialist, my ultimate goal is to be directly involved in the research and development that will help to improve our nation's security infrastructures. I want to be a leader in this field, sharing my experiences with others and inspiring the next generation of diverse professionals from all walks of life — especially young women who are not sure if there is a place for them in technology. There is. And I want to be proof of that.

My love for helping and protecting people is what drives me. I believe that by working together, we can create a safer and more secure world for everyone.