For the past three semesters, I have worked on the Socio-Cybersecurity research project alongside Sociology and Cybersecurity professors. Throughout this time I have been actively engaged in the research process and student developmental procedures. This research project has reinforced sociological concepts and exposed me to new technological ones. Moreover, opportunities from this research project include presenting at the Emerging Researchers National Conference in STEM, Norfolk State University’s Undergraduate Research Symposiums, and at the grand opening of Norfolk States’ Cybersecurity Complex.

Throughout the research project, I have worked on different modules incorporating critical technological concepts into the social sciences. It has been a wonderful experience working alongside Drs. Carlene & Claude Turner examining social deviance, such as phishing, from a social problems standpoint. Also, I worked with Drs. Shen & Graham examining how data integrity and encryption affects social science research. One of the most exciting experiences is being able to take part in developing course curriculum. For instance, helping to construct survey questions and creating PowerPoint lectures for different modules. As my time on the project comes to an end, it is exciting to see the course being offered to students in the Fall of 2018.

I would like to thank the National Science Foundation, Sociology Department and Computer Science Department for this wonderful learning opportunity and enriching experience. Specifically, I would like to thank Dr. Turner for allowing me the opportunity to work on the research project and Dr. Shen for acting as a mentor. This project has allowed me to become a more competitive student as I continue my education at the graduate level this coming fall.

Fall 2017 & Spring 2018