We might not initially realize how much the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps rely on STEM fields. While combat operations are a vital part of their mission, these branches also excel in areas like medicine, computer science, and cybersecurity. Cybersecurity, in particular, has captured my interest. After watching interview videos about this field, I've come to appreciate how STEM is incorporated into every aspect of modern life. This essay will explore how cybersecurity, a critical STEM field, protects the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Understanding the importance of fields like cybersecurity is essential in grasping the holistic nature of these military branches. The specific STEM research area I have chosen from the videos is Cybersecurity. As Dr. …show more content…
Sometimes, there are doors where the rooms are interconnected. The person next door could be good or bad, so it is important to make sure your stuff is protected. Cybersecurity is a field where it helps make sure data is secured, although everything is interconnected. In our analogy, for the interconnected doors, we have to make sure the correct lock is there, and that we lock the door. Furthermore, in our analogy, guests need a key card to access their room. Similarly, in cybersecurity, different levels of access (like passwords or fingerprint scanners) control who can see specific data. Hotels have firewalls to separate guest areas from staff areas. In computer networks, firewalls act as barriers to protect sensitive data. These are examples of the many ways this analogy connects with cybersecurity. I find cybersecurity inspiring because, Jennifer Cheung, a cybersecurity engineer interviewed in the video, even compares cybersecurity professionals to "superheroes" because of their role in safeguarding information. This is crucial for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps' current operations. Cybersecurity helps them be prepared for any threats and protects vital data that ensures mission success. …show more content…
Her journey, as detailed in the video I watched, resonated with me because of our shared passion for cybersecurity. Jennifer, originally from Hong Kong, has a background in math and even pursued an undergraduate degree in anthropology to improve her English skills. Her role in updating systems for the Navy and the Marines, ensuring the protection of crucial data for mission success, is truly inspiring. Her story parallels my ambitions in STEM fields, particularly cybersecurity. I have actively participated in the CyberPatriots program and found great satisfaction in tackling cybersecurity challenges. Jennifer's advice about the importance of basic subjects and STEM has struck a chord with me. Her words have motivated me to pursue my passion and have assured me that my path will encompass these fundamental