CST300: Major ProSeminar, Week 4

Part 1: Set Your Educational Goals

My main educational goal is to successfully complete my Bachelor's degree in Computer Science within the next two years. I want to graduate with a strong GPA, a solid understanding of core CS concepts, and practical experience I can carry into a new career in tech. 

To get there, I plan to stay consistent with my coursework, ask for help when I need it, and take full advantage of any hands-on projects or internship opportunities. I also want to earn at least one industry certification while I'm still in school, like CompTIA Security+ to start building credibility in cybersecurity. 

Beyond graduation, I hope to keep learning by attending conferences, joining tech communities, and eventually pursuing a more advanced certification or maybe even a master's degree once I'm established in the field.

Part 2: Set Your Own Goals

In two years, I'll graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science. My goal after that is to shift from my current role as an administrative professional in local government into the tech sector, with a focus in cybersecurity.

I want to be in a position where I'm actively solving real-world problems, protecting systems and data, and continuing to grow in a constantly evolving field.

Here's what my five-year plan looks like:

Year 1-2

Finish my degree and complete at least one internship or entry-level experience in cybersecurity or IT support. I want to start building hands-on experience while continuing to develop my technical foundation and certifications like CompTIA Security+.

Year 3-4

Land my first full-time job in cybersecurity or tech role, ideally at an organization that values mentorship and growth. I want to be applying what I've learned, sharpening my problem-solving skills, and learning from others in the field.

Year 5
Be fully transitioned into a cybersecurity analyst or IT security role, with a strong grasp of the field's tools and systems. I'd also like to mentor others starting out and pursue a more advanced certification.

I hope to ultimately move toward a leadership or management role where I can combine my technical background with my people skills. I enjoy working with teams, supporting others, and helping create a positive, productive environment.

Part 3: ETS Computer Science Test

If I had to take the ETS Computer Science test today, I don't think I'd do very well. I took a year off before starting this program due to personal reasons, and I definitely feel like I've fallen behind in some of the core CS material. It's true what they say: if you don't use it, you lose it. That said, I'm committed to getting back on track and rebuilding my confidence and skills. 

Looking ahead to the next 96 weeks, I'm hopeful. With consistent studying, hands-on practice, and a focus on areas I'm weaker in, I think I could score somewhere around the 60th percentile. It's not where I want to stay long-term, but it feels like a realistic goal. I know I have work to do, but I'm motivated and ready to put in the effort to get back to where I was, and beyond.

Part 4: What I Learned/Did This Week

This week's material covered a lot, from the ethics argument essay to deeper career reflections and the growing role of AI in computer science. Learning more about the ethical implications of AI and how it's changing the workplace helped me think about how I want to use it responsibly in my future career. We also spent time setting personal goals, which helped me reflect on my path and what I want to accomplish both during and after this program.

Outside of class, I took a little break this weekend and drove up to Monterey. I didn't realize how much Hispanic and Spanish influence there was in the area. I visited the aquarium and made a stop at the CSUMB campus. Here's a picture of me with the Otters for Life statue, the Business and Information Technology Building, and the Otter Student Union. The campus is really interesting with a mix of old military-style buildings with some newer ones sprinkled in. Since I went on a Sunday, it was super quiet. I mostly saw birds and empty Adirondack chairs. Still, it was peaceful and gave me a much needed break.

Otters For Life Statue

Business and Information Technology Building

Otter Student Union

A Good Rock in Pacific Grove

Japanese Porcupine Crab

Pacific Sea Nettle, my favorite live stream to watch linked here.