PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Nov. 7, 2025) – Between fixing AC units with his dad and competing in robotics competitions, Kolade Shofoluwe says he has always been fascinated by technology.
Shofoluwe, now pursuing a master’s in computer science at Prairie View A&M University, said, “I’ve always chased the next problem to solve. Cybersecurity stood out to me because I understood how important it is to protect data and keep the digital world safe. I wanted to use my technical skills to contribute to that mission.”
More recently, Shofoluwe, alongside another PVAMU student, Ryan Tucker, was among a select group of 34 interns nationwide selected for a competitive Capital One cybersecurity program. Over 10 weeks, they gained hands-on experience in safeguarding digital systems and learned practical skills while representing the University on a national stage.
The selection process, he said, was rigorous. After an initial screening call focused on cybersecurity concepts, he advanced to a four-hour interview that tested technical knowledge, behavioral responses and business case problem-solving.
“When I received the phone call telling me I was selected, I felt proud,” Shofoluwe said. “It was validating to know that my hard work had paid off and that I’d get to learn at such a high level.”
A highlight, he said, was taking first place with six other teammates in the company hackathon at Capital One’s headquarters in McLean, Virginia, calling it “an unforgettable experience.”
Shofoluwe credited PVAMU with preparing him to succeed in the role, citing both technical coursework and experiences through organizations such as the National Society of Black Engineers.
“PVAMU gave me a strong technical foundation and opportunities to apply what I learned,” he said. “More than anything, PVAMU taught me resilience, that with focus and persistence, you can work through any challenge.”
He said representing Prairie View A&M in the national program carried special meaning, often sharing with peers how choosing to attend Prairie View was one of the most significant decisions he’s made professionally.
“Being able to represent the university on a national stage was a proud moment,” Shofoluwe said. “I wanted to show that HBCU students can thrive and excel anywhere.”
The internship also reinforced his long-term career goals.
“It gave me real exposure to what cybersecurity looks like at a large company,” Shofoluwe said. “It confirmed that this is the space I want to build my career in.”
Looking ahead, he hopes to design and protect systems people can trust, whether in industry or public service.
For other PVAMU students seeking internships or similar career trajectories, he advised: “Be confident and keep building your skills. Having something tangible on your resume makes a big difference.”
At a time when threats to digital systems are constantly evolving, Shofoluwe sees both challenges and opportunities.
“Attackers are constantly finding new ways to exploit systems, and defensive teams need to adapt just as quickly,” he said. “But that challenge is also the biggest opportunity. It pushes innovation and collaboration across industries. Cybersecurity isn’t static, and that makes it both demanding and exciting.”
By Christine Won
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