Homeland Security Personal Statement

I will complete my undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) with majors in both computer science and physics. I aspire to matriculate at a graduate school with a prominent quantum information department such as either the very competitive Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) or the California Institute of Technology (Cal-Tech). My ultimate goal is to research quantum computing for the United States Department of Defense and/or Department of Homeland Security and develop innovative encryption techniques that will shape the future of national security.

I hope to bridge the gap between computer science and physics by researching quantum computing. This rapidly-growing field has already produced unprecedented

advancements such as Grover’s algorithm, a search process that produces exponentially faster results, compared to the traditional algorithms currently in use. Powerful concepts like quantum superposition, if used for nefarious purposes, could someday be the source of a crippling cyber-attack on our nation. Considering our heavy reliance on technology and internet commerce, an attack of this nature could paralyze our infrastructure and send the U.S. back to the dark ages.

The current state of cyber security is no match for a true quantum computer, which a myriad of private companies and research institutions across the globe are racing to engineer.

Today’s encryption methods employ the factoring of extremely large numbers. Nevertheless, several quantum algorithms already exist that can factor large numbers almost instantaneously. Although quantum computing is still in its infancy, numerous national defense experts have argued that innovative systems of encryption will become increasingly critical as quantum computing progresses. In an effort to augment the future of national security, I aspire to develop groundbreaking encryption techniques that will defend against many impending

threats.

I understand that both my educational and career goals are ambitious, but they are obtainable through hard work and dedication.  I consider UIC to be a crucial launching point in my quest for knowledge and academic excellence.
I’ve made my fair share of mistakes during my youth. Using the oven to hide my roommate’s birthday gift was a big mistake. Bleaching my hair blonde turned out to be an even bigger mistake. My biggest oversight, however, was taking so long to realize that my true passion in life is computer science. I was raised in a low-income household; my family could barely afford gym shoes, so a computer was out of the question. Many in my family consider my educational goal to be a fantasy, nevertheless I remain determined to be the first Chavera to earn a college degree.

I began my pursuit of higher education in 2002, despite my family’s disapproval. Since my parents were never able to attend college, they find it difficult to understand its value. Unfortunately, my journey ended abruptly when I was diagnosed with a rare and incurable neurological disease that left me disabled. I was able to turn this curse into a blessing by utilizing the downtime of my long and arduous convalescence to realize my penchant for technology.

My passion for technology was ignited several years ago when I purchased my first smartphone; it’s the same phone I have today.

Though it was nothing fancy or expensive, I wanted its performance to resemble the high-end models.  I took to the Internet, where I learned how to root (unlock) my phone and flash custom ROMs (firmware). I was fascinated by the way one simple line of code could dance simultaneously between different layers of abstraction, orchestrating a symphony of operations in perfect harmony. I became active in several online communities devoted to mobile software development. There, I was able to learn how to disassemble ROMs and put them back together, figure out what makes them work and augment them for optimal performance.  I’ve created various scripts, tweaks, and themes on my own, yet the most exhilarating experience has been volunteering on open-source projects where I work under experienced

developers.

Although my affliction comes with many obstacles that I must endure on a daily basis, since returning to college I have earned a perfect 4.0 GPA. I’m also working hard to secure straight A’s in my current classes; Physics II, Calculus III, and Differential Equations. Last year, I won the Dvorak Memorial Scholarship for achievement in the face of adversity and the LaVista Scholarship for first generation students. Not only did I win this year’s Eileen Phipps Memorial Scholarship for volunteerism and academic merit, I have also become the Vice President of the award-winning Chi Upsilon Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. Most recently, I was nominated for the All-State Academic Scholar’s Award; this prestigious nomination is awarded to two of the highest achieving students at each community college in recognition of their commitment to leadership, service, and academic excellence.

In terms of personal goals, studying at a prestigious college, completing bachelor's and graduate degrees, and establishing a successful career will allow me to continue to as an example and mentor for my family. I have two nephews currently attending high school who rely on me for academic encouragement and homework assistance, as well as to help them prepare for college. As the first in my family to attend college, it is imperative that I serve as a role model. It is my sincerest desire that my success is the first step forward for my entire family on the path to a bright future.