Shirlyn Jenita Jasper

I've always been deeply interested in computer science since high school, where I was coding in Python and Java and exploring AI applications. I tried building computer vision applications using Keras and TensorFlow, Google's frameworks, but I didn't find fulfillment in just building software. When I tried implementing security within the software, that's where I found my true calling. As a girl, everybody always wants to protect you, but I had this desire to protect others and secure them. Being short in stature, I wouldn't be physically able to protect anyone, but digitally, I can accomplish protecting and securing others by pursuing my cybersecurity career. That's what gives me fulfillment. I currently work as a graduate assistant at Montclair State University, where I tutor students in Java and security concepts, help senior students with technology issues, and support the campus community. I'm pursuing higher certifications like CISSP to reach leadership roles such as Security Information Officer, with the goal of eventually becoming a Chief Technology Officer in the future. I'm also a member of the security club at the university where we collaborate and find strength in community.