Computer Science &

Mathematics Student

Cybersecurity Specialist

Alvaro Leon Parra

Portfolio

About me

01

My Story

I’m originally from Spain and moved to America in 2016 for my junior year of high school. Since I was little, water polo has been a huge part of my life. It taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to handle competition. When I came to the U.S., I seized the opportunity to compete in water polo at a school level while pursuing my studies.

As much as I loved the sport, I soon realized that my true passion lay in technology and problem-solving. This realization led me to make a significant shift in focus from athletics to academics. I decided to dive deep into the world of computer science and mathematics, areas that challenged and excited me the most.

I am now nearing the completion of my dual degrees with a concentration in cybersecurity. Over the course of my studies, I have gained a solid foundation in algorithms, data structures, and software design. I’ve also become proficient in several programming languages and cybersecurity tools, which have prepared me well for the challenges of the IT world.

Looking ahead, I am eager to apply what I’ve learned in a rewarding IT position that focuses on cybersecurity. I am particularly interested in roles that will allow me to tackle real-world security issues, enhancing safety and efficiency for businesses and their customers. My journey from the water polo pools of Spain to the tech-driven environment of cybersecurity has been unique, and I am excited to see where my skills and passions will take me next.

Professional Summary

Highly motivated and detail-oriented computer science and mathematics senior with a concentration in cybersecurity. Pursuing a challenging and rewarding IT position that will lead into the cybersecurity field. Possess a passion for problem-solving and a strong foundation in algorithms, data structures, and software design. Proficient in Scripting languages, Java, and C++, with experience in web development, databases, networking, automation and scripting.

Proficiencies

  • Programming Languages: Java, C++, Python, Bash Scripting, JavaScript, PHP, HTML, and CSS.
  • Software: Eclipse, NetBeans, Dev++, Visual Studio, MS Office, MS Outlook, MySQL, Blender, Nmap, Metasploit Framework, Wireshark, Aircrack-ng, Burp Suite, SQLmap, John the Ripper.
  • Systems: Experience working with Linux/Windows/iOS and virtualized/physical server environments, Creating Network Infrastructure.
  • Security: Vulnerability-scanning, Design and understanding of Server.
  • Languages: English (Fluent), Spanish (Native Tongue), Italian (Intermediate), French (Intermediate).
  • Additional Skills: Communication, problem-solving, monitoring, customer service, observant, dedicated team member.

Projects

02

Personal Website Project

Leveraging the capabilities of Blender, Shapr3D, Three.js, and React.js, I have meticulously designed and developed an immersive 3D web experience that represents a virtual reconstruction of my personal space. This project serves as a testament to my technical proficiency in blending cutting-edge web technologies with the art of digital design. It demonstrates the seamless integration of realistic 3D environments into interactive web applications, providing users with an engaging exploration of digitally crafted spaces. The initiative underscores my commitment to innovation and the synthesis of visual aesthetics with functional, user-centered design.

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Scholarship Application Management System (FSFSA)

As part of a dynamic team comprising both tech and business students, we developed a Scholarship Management Portal for [Fairmont State University]'s Financial Aid Department. This capstone project brought together the analytical acumen of business majors with the technical expertise of computer science students. Hosted on an EC2 Linux instance for robust performance, the portal features a React.js-driven frontend, offering a user-friendly interface for efficient scholarship application processing. The backend is supported by a MySQL database on a Linux server, providing a secure and systematic approach to data handling. Our collaborative project has successfully automated and simplified the scholarship administration process, ensuring a more accessible and organized system for the department and student applicants alike.

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Cybersecurity Infrastructure Development and Penetration Testing Capstone Project

In this capstone project, I independently designed and implemented a secure server infrastructure using Ubuntu, coupled with Apache2, MySQL, and PHP for comprehensive web services. A pivotal component of my project was establishing an SMTP server, ingeniously configured to capture login credentials during user authentication attempts. This feature was instrumental in my penetration testing strategy, allowing me to simulate real-world attack scenarios and evaluate the server's response to unauthorized access attempts. Throughout the project, I meticulously configured SSL certificates to enhance communication security and applied a suite of cybersecurity tools, including Nmap and WFuzz, for vulnerability assessment. My efforts culminated in a robust server setup that not only met operational requirements but also exhibited resilience against common cybersecurity threats. The project underscored the critical importance of continuous security monitoring and the proactive management of vulnerabilities in maintaining the integrity of networked systems.

Explore My Diverse Portfolio on GitHub

For a comprehensive view of my technical proficiency and creativity across a spectrum of technologies and programming languages, I invite you to explore my GitHub portfolio. My projects showcase a broad range of skills, from developing applications in Java and C++ to crafting mathematical proofs in LaTeX and managing databases with MySQL. Each project is a testament to my dedication to mastering the complexities of computer science and my continuous pursuit of challenging the boundaries of technology.