Cybersecurity Personal Statement

I first became interested in computer science after 8th grade when I took courses in C++ and animation. Since then, I have taken classes related to engineering and technology. This year, I had the opportunity to take Intro to Computer Science at Yeshiva University in Manhattan. In 10th and 11th grades I took Scientific Engineering, a unique class at my school that combined programming and electrical engineering to create interactive projects. For example, in 10th grade, my team and I made a coffee machine using the Arduino microcontroller, an IR remote, servos, and solenoid valves. We built containers out of PVC pipe to hold water, instant coffee, and sugar. Using the IR remote, we were able to regulate the exact amount of water, coffee, and

I would like to combine my interest in computer science with other marketing and business courses at Wharton. I think that studying consumer behavior is important because that information can tell companies where to spend their money more efficiently, which saves the company money, which in turn helps consumers save money. Helping the world run more efficiently saves money at every level.
I find cybersecurity fascinating. The current controversy over alleged Russian hacking and the surge in hacking carried out against large corporations suggests that cybersecurity is an area that will be critical in the future. It's not inconceivable that developing malware -- like Stuxnet -- will be the warfare of the future. I noticed that many of the faculty are interested in data security yet there is no cybersecurity program at Penn. I would love to see Penn add a cybersecurity program as it seems like it is growing more important as time passes.
Penn has a number of intriguing research opportunities. CIS 99, a one on one research and skill development class with a faculty member is a course that I would like to take. The Rachleff Scholars Program and the undergraduate research program appear to be a remarkable summer opportunity to combine skills with