My name is Napoleon Cornel Paxton and I am a junior Computer Science Major studying at Elizabeth City State University. I believe that through hard work and perseverance anything can be accomplished. My educational goals are to continue my education through out my life, keeping myself current with all new technologies and research efforts. Upon completion of my undergraduate degree, I plan to attend graduate school concentrating on computer science, and remote sensing. My career goals are to make a major impact on a company with my creativity by becoming a systems analyst and then eventually progressing to CIO.

Over the last seven years, I was enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During that time, I learned a lot about myself and realized what I wanted to do in life. I was a communications specialist in the Marine Corps, which gave me an opportunity to be exposed to many different technologies. I found that I have the ability to fine tune systems for more efficient use. This ability along with the development of transferable skills like teamwork and leadership are the reasons that I am very happy with my military experience. Throughout the duration of my military career, I attended night school when I could. Situations at work made going to school very difficult at times, but being in a situation where I could not go to school when I wanted gave me a greater appreciation of the education that I was obtaining. I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to finish my undergraduate degree in a normal college setting.

This year is an exciting one for me. I have both the opportunity and the privilege to be a part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration research team at Elizabeth City State University. I am looking forward to learning more about research methods and working with the different tools that are required to do the research. I will make the most of the opportunities that I have been given, and through this program, I believe that I will gain the knowledge to excel as a researcher. This program will also give me the opportunity to attend seminars and hear more about other opportunities in my field of study. I know that in today’s economy most people change jobs several times before settling on that one perfect job, so if I do come across something that fits my skills and personality I will not dismiss the possibility of pursuing it.