Share the Dream: My Life, My Focus, My Goal Share the Dream: My Life, My Focus, My Goal: Ballah, Daniel

Share the Dream essay by Daniel Ballah

I'm Daniel Ballah, a 19-year-old from Pawtucket, Rhode Island. I am proud of my ethnic Liberian heritage, which values community, perseverance, and hard work. I have five members in my family which have always pushed me to pursue education and aim high. Being raised in the city of Pawtucket has influenced my values and inspired me to strive for excellence in all times of my life, particularly in my academic and professional efforts.

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth was the best choice for me both financially and academically, so I decided to enroll there. I am currently pursuing a career in cybersecurity, which is a field I am passionate about, and UMassD offers a strong program in this area. Maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA and, ideally, making the Dean's List are my academic objectives while attending the university. I'm determined to improve my technical abilities, obtain practical experience, and get ready for the duties that will come with graduating.

I intend to join the US Air Force after receiving my degree so that I can apply my cybersecurity expertise to defend both domestic and international interests. My objective is to serve honorably and contribute significantly to the protection of our nation's digital infrastructure. In the long run, I want to support my family, mentor young people, and close the technology gap in underprivileged areas by using my education and military experience to make a positive impact on my community. My goal is to use technology and service to make the world a safer and more connected place.