Makayla Johnson

I pursued employment with HHS through the Pathways to Public Service program because, as a Scholarship for Service scholar, I am passionate about making a tangible impact in the field of cybersecurity. I was looking for an opportunity where I could contribute to safeguarding critical public health infrastructure, and HHS provided the perfect environment for that. My interactions with the team managers were incredibly positive, reinforcing my belief that the role’s responsibilities aligned with my goals of enhancing national cybersecurity and protecting sensitive data. This alignment made HHS the ideal place for me to apply my skills and grow in my career.

What excited me most about the Pathways to Public Service internship is the opportunity to take ownership of projects and innovate within the organization. The chance to create something unique and see the direct impact of my work on the workplace and its future operations is incredibly motivating. I am eager to explore new ideas, push the boundaries of what’s possible, and contribute to meaningful advancements in the field.

My university has provided a solid foundation for the work I’ll be doing, particularly through courses in cybersecurity and Python, which have sharpened my technical skills. Recently, I’ve focused more on database and network security, areas critical to safeguarding sensitive information. Additionally, my school offers a specialized program dedicated to preparing students for government work, which I am actively involved in. Through this program, I’ve participated in workshops on leadership and learned how to effectively apply my skills in the public sector. This combination of technical training and leadership development has thoroughly prepared me for a successful career in government cybersecurity.

The Pathways program played a crucial role in helping me navigate my federal career with HHS, even though my hiring process was somewhat unique as a Scholarship for Service scholar. I was referred to HHS through a career fair in D.C., where I connected with a representative who guided me through the initial steps. Afterward, I interviewed my future manager, who provided valuable insights into the process and what to expect. The entire HHS team was incredibly supportive during the hiring process, ensuring I understood each step and helping me transition smoothly into my role.