Honor Society® member
John Thomas
- Bachelors in Cybersecurity
- Class of 2028
- Missoula, Montana
Member since October 2024
About
I’m a college student currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, with a strong interest in ethical hacking and digital defense. I’ve always been curious about how things work—especially when it comes to technology—and that curiosity has grown into a passion for protecting systems and people in a world that’s becoming more digital by the day.
I’m focused, driven, and not afraid of a challenge. Whether I’m working through tough coursework, learning new tools, or researching security vulnerabilities, I bring a mindset that’s both analytical and creative. I’m currently in the process of being inducted into the honor society, which reflects the effort I’ve put into staying disciplined and excelling academically.
Beyond the classroom, I’m passionate about personal growth and long-term goals. One day, I hope to become a certified ethical hacker and eventually launch my own cybersecurity business. I’m also someone who values balance—I love spending time outdoors, fishing, and being with my two dogs. At the end of the day, I’m working hard to build a life that blends purpose, passion, and impact.
Education
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University of Phoenix
Bachelors in Cybersecurity
2024 – Present
Honors and awards
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national society of leadership and success
I’m currently in the process of being inducted into the National Honor Society, which recognizes academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to personal growth. This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my studies, as well
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dean's list
Made the deans list for the First half of the calendar year 2025. With a GPA of 3.5
Goals and interests
- Career goal
My intended job path is to become a certified ethical hacker, with the long-term goal of starting my own cybersecurity business. I want to work in a hands-on role where I can identify system vulnerabilities, run penetration tests, and help organizations strengthen their digital defenses. I’m especially drawn to ethical hacking because it blends creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills—and it allows me to make a real impact by staying one step ahead of cyber threats.
After gaining a few years of experience in the field, I plan to take on leadership roles, expand my knowledge through certifications like CEH and OSCP, and eventually build a company that offers cybersecurity services to businesses that may not have strong in-house protection. My goal isn’t just to have a job—it’s to build a career that challenges me, allows me to keep learning, and gives me the freedom to innovate while helping others stay safe in the digital world.
- Graduate school interests
I’m definitely open to the idea of graduate school, especially if it helps me deepen my expertise in cybersecurity. Right now, my focus is on building a strong foundation through my bachelor’s program and gaining real-world experience, but down the line, I could see myself pursuing a master’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Assurance, or even a specialized area like digital forensics or cyber threat intelligence.
What interests me about grad school is the chance to really dive deeper into the field—exploring advanced topics, working on complex projects, and connecting with professionals who are pushing the industry forward. I also see it as a stepping stone if I want to move into higher-level roles or if I decide to teach or mentor others in the future.
Grad school isn’t a requirement for the path I’m on, but I view it as a powerful tool that could open new doors and give me a competitive edge, especially as I work toward my ultimate goal of becoming a certified ethical hacker and launching my own cybersecurity business.
- Outside the classroom
Fishing
Spending time outdoors (especially in the summer)
Hiking and exploring nature
Working with technology and learning new cybersecurity tools
Ethical hacking and cybersecurity challenges
Playing with and caring for my two dogs
Watching tech-related content and staying updated on cybersecurity news
Sewing and customizing clothes
Collecting or designing tattoos
DIY tech projects or building setups
Reading or listening to podcasts about personal growth and tech innovation
Experience
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assistant manager
Working as the assistant manager at a gas station gave me invaluable insights into handling various situations and interacting with different people. This experience wasn’t just about overseeing daily operations—it was a crash course in practical problem-solving and human relations. It taught me to think on my feet, adapt quickly, and understand diverse perspectives, essential skills in any career path. The role pushed me out of my comfort zone. It helped me develop a keen sense of responsibility and empathy, which are critical for personal and professional growth. Overall, I think that time enriched my skill set and shaped my approach to challenges, making it a pivotal part of my learning journey.
Jan 2020 – Dec 2021
Languages
- English (US) Advanced
Additional information
Organizations
