I'm Taylor Wavra
Welcome to my portfolio!
I am a passionate college student in computer science and cybersecurity, combining academic studies, certification preparation, and hands-on projects to launch a professional career.
Professional Summary
I am a student at Liberty University Online majoring in Computer Science Cybersecurity with a strong interest in Security Operations, Network Security, Programming, and Cyber Defense.
Presently, I am a Supervisor at a local nonprofit chess organization, which has helped me develop practical leadership, management, communication, teamwork, and presentation skills while transforming the lives of young children through the game of chess. By helping provide structured, high-quality chess education to students of all skill levels while creating a fun, inclusive, and growth-focused environment, I aspire to contribute to the mission of our organization and make a lasting impact through the world's greatest game, chess.
Current Focus
I enjoy problem-solving, working with Linux, and applying my skills to security challenges. While I work on various projects, I am also preparing to earn industry certifications such as CompTIA Network+ and Security+.
Career Goals
My long-term goal is to contribute to protecting systems and data as a cybersecurity professional, starting with internships in SOC analysis and defensive security. My interest is in blue-teaming, and I hope to someday be a security engineer.
Outside of cybersecurity, I enjoy chess, technology, 3D printing, and sports, to name a few. I am passionate about connecting with like-minded professionals in the field and learn more about opportunities in cyber defense.
Core Technical Competencies
Problem Solving
Analytical thinking and systematic approach to complex challenges
Cybersecurity
Information security principles and defensive strategies
Information Security
Data protection, risk assessment, and security framework implementation
C++
Object-oriented programming and system-level development for security applications
Python
Scripting and automation for cybersecurity tools and analysis
Linux
System administration and command-line proficiency
Technical Projects
01
Linux Mastery
Installed Linux distributions on 2 outdated personal laptops through USB, and customized my personal desktop to dual-boot both Windows and Linux with additional virtual machines.
02
System Administration
Set up, configured, and troubleshooted 30+ virtual machines for academic assignments and labs, personal development, and hands-on learning. Applied system administration skills and knowledge
03
Research & Writing
Researched and wrote dozens of papers on relevant cybersecurity topics and issues. Initiated an online blog to document my cybersecurity journey and share projects, information, tips, and strategies with the community.
04
Technical Troubleshooting
Diagnosed and troubleshooted a variety of technical software and hardware issues with home network and personal devices
180+
TryHackMe Rooms
Completed hands-on cybersecurity challenges, placing in the top 3% of users
30+
Virtual Machines
Configured for security testing and learning environments
20+
Articles and Papers
Researched, written, and published
2+
CTFs Completed
Learn more about my CTF experience on GitHub.
Blog
Learn about me and my cybersecurity journey
What It Is, How It Started, and Why It’s Popular
TryHackMe Room Walkthrough
TryHackMe Room Walkthrough
TryHackMe Room Walkthrough
Education
Bachelor of Science (August 2024 - December 2026)
- School: Liberty University Online
- Major: Computer Science Cybersecurity
- GPA: 3.9
- Achievements: Sigma Beta Delta Member, Academic Excellence Award, Dean’s List, Honors Society Member, National Cyberwatch Center Student Association Participant
- Technical Courses: Introduction to Linux, Advanced C++ Programming, System Administration, Studies in Information Security, Computer Architecture and Organization
Associate of Arts (2022 - May 2024)
- School: Liberty University Online Academy (Dual Enrollment)
- Major: Information Systems
- GPA: 3.93
- Achievements: Completed during high school, High Honors, Dual-Enrollment, Scholarly Student Award
- Technical Courses: Application Programming, Database Management Systems, Business Data Communication Systems
High School Diploma (2024)
- School: Liberty University Online Academy (Dual Enrollment)
- GPA: 4.0
High School Programming Courses (2021 - 2023)
CodeWizardsHQ
- Grade: 100%
- Courses:
- Description:
Completed all 11 high school programming courses. Earned a certificate for each course.
Learned and practiced fundamental programming and web design concepts.
Mastered programming languages and techniques: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, SQL, Flask, jQuery, Bootstrap, APIs, and more.
Implemented programming understanding by coding more than 60 homework projects and web applications. Tested and debugged code with classmates.
Professional Experience
Supervisor - Day & Knight Chess Club
March 2025 - Present | Pomona, California
- Supervised after-school chess classes of up to 30 students at over 10 different schools
- Prepared for classes by setting up materials and collaborating with associates to coordinate classes
- Instructed multiple educational lessons each week during classes using various techniques to teach students important concepts in a memorable way
- Enthusiastically engaged with all students to promote learning, fun, improvement, competition, and community
- Ensured proper safety, behavior, and learning at all times by adhering to company and school protocols
- Collaborated with teams of up to 5 coaches per class, distributing tasks to improve efficiency and increase performance
Instructor & Curriculum Developer - Chess-U-See
April 2024 - Present | San Dimas, California
- Developed and implemented class curriculum by researching student needs and selecting chess puzzles for worksheets, enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes
- Assisted the owner with worksheet design and production process, ensuring clarity and effectiveness in delivery
- Instructed classes of more than 12 students to communicate important concepts, foster participation, and improve playing ability
Technical Writer - White Hat Wes Cybersecurity
January 2025 - June 2025 | Remote
- Conducted in-depth research on current cybersecurity trends to produce relevant content.
- Wrote informative articles educating readers on cybersecurity best practices and practical resources.
Get In Touch
Email
LinkedIn