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

sugar. This year I became the captain of hardware for my robotics team. Each year we compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge, where teams from over 80 countries compete to build robots.
I would love to take courses in digital media design because I have always found animation and 3D modeling exciting and enjoyable. Similarly, the on campus SIGGRAPH Chapter sounds like a fascinating opportunity to work with other people interested in computer graphics.
I am also taking a college course in marketing.

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

industry.
Some activities I do in my spare time include: skiing, hiking, reading, and playing chess. For the past few years, I have spent much of my free time building a small house in my backyard. After weeks spent obtaining permits and responding to the municipal building department’s queries, I have finally finished my small house, complete with siding, windows, doors, and insulation. This was a wonderful project for me because I was able to work on my house from concept to completion. I plan to continue all of these activities at Penn, and hope to help others appreciate the beauty in working with nature and in working with our own two hands.