Week 4 Learning Journal

Part 1: My goal is to graduate from the CS program with a strong foundation in software development, cybersecurity, and data systems so I can confidently land a full-time job as a cybersecurity engineer for the Department of Defense or a private defense contractor. I want to be skilled enough to pass security clearances, earn industry certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CISSP, and contribute to building secure, innovative technology that protects people and critical infrastructure. I see myself walking across the stage at graduation, proud of the hard work I've put in, and excited to step into a role where I can grow, learn, and make a real impact.

Part 2: My goal is to become a cybersecurity engineer working with the Department of Defense or a top defense contractor like Lockheed Martin, where I can help design and protect mission-critical systems. I want to be part of projects that make a real difference in national security, using my skills to prevent cyber threats and build resilient infrastructure. I can picture myself in a high-security office, solving complex problems, collaborating with a skilled team, and knowing that the work I do matters on a national scale.

Part 3: After looking through the ETS Computer Science test description and sample content, I’d guess that in 18 months I could score around the 60th–70th percentile, or at least hope so. I feel confident in areas like programming fundamentals, and logic but I know I still struggle with discrete structures and some of the advanced algorithms. However, I plan to steadily improve those weak areas throughout the CS program. With consistent study and practice, especially focusing on data structures, I think I’ll be well-prepared and able to score above average by the time I graduate.

Part 4: This week, I learned more about setting clear educational and career goals that motivate me and give direction to my time in the CS program. It helped me visualize the future I’m working toward and reminded me why I chose this field. I also started exploring the ETS Computer Science test and took a guess at my future percentile, which gave me a better understanding of where I need to improve, especially in discrete structures. One highlight of the week was the team group assignment. It was actually really fun and made me laugh a lot, which I appreciated. I enjoy engaging activities like that because they make the work feel more personal and less stressful. I also started researching for my ethics paper. I’m planning to finish my outline this week so I can stay ahead. Overall, it’s been a productive and motivating week.

Comments

  1. SHobsonMay 28, 2025 at 7:43 AM

    Hi Faith, I really admire your clarity and ambition in pursuing a career in cybersecurity, especially with your goal of working for the Department of Defense or a major contractor like Lockheed Martin. Your focus on certifications like Security+ and CISSP shows you’re already thinking ahead. I can relate to wanting to make a national impact with technology, our goals align in wanting to use our CS degrees to contribute to something meaningful. Keep pushing forward—you’re on a strong path, and I know your dedication will pay off.

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  2. cMay 29, 2025 at 8:05 PM

    Hi Faith, I love that you are very specific about what job you want. I wrote mine in more of a broad sense, so this has encouraged me to think more specifically about what I want to do. I believe that the best thing in your plan is that you already see yourself working in the position that you want. No one is better at a job than someone who is passionate about it. Good luck! I am rooting for you!

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  3. LuisMay 30, 2025 at 8:51 AM

    It is great to see your confidence in your educational and career goals. You are clearly motivated in your plans with your sights already into the career field. You have a thought out plan for the steps to take to ensure you are a competitive candidate in the cybersecurity field. I am sure you will be very proud to help our nation defend against cyber attacks. I too have an interest in cybersecurity and seeing some of your steps after college are inspiring and a guidance for me too look into. I wish you the best of luck!

    ReplyDelete
  4. CodyMay 31, 2025 at 10:30 AM

    It sounds like you really have your goals planned out. My goals were a bit more general -- just planning to graduate from CSUMB in two years, but I like how you map out certain certifications you want to take and already have a company in mind you want to work for. I am not really familiar with the field of cybersecurity, but I think having certifications will give you an advantage when applying for jobs after graduation.

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