Dear Sterling Bank Scholarship Committee,
My name is Michael Lambo, and I am nominating myself for this scholarship to pursue cybersecurity at Miva Open University. Six months ago, when a family friend lost ₦250,000 to a phishing scam, I realized Nigeria needs more cybersecurity professionals—and I decided to become one.
Why I Deserve This Opportunity?
Though new to cybersecurity, my journey demonstrates my commitment:
● Self-taught basics through 10+ hours of free Cisco and Google courses and python fundamentals in 3 weeks
● Created a virtual lab using old smartphones to practice networking
● Helped secure my neighbor’s business WhatsApp after a hack
My 4-Year Value Proposition
Year 1: Foundation Building
● Master networking fundamentals and Linux systems
● Earn CompTIA Security+ certification
Launch cybersecurity awareness blog for SMEs
Year 2: Technical Specialization
● Develop ethical hacking skills through TryHackMe challenges
● Complete Sterling Bank’s digital security internship
● Create “Fraud Prevention Toolkit” for market traders
Year 3: Financial Systems Focus
● Research emerging fintech threats
● Earn Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification
● Establish university cybersecurity club
Year 4: Professional Transition
● Complete capstone project on secure mobile banking
● Mentor 10 aspiring cybersecurity students
● Prepare to join Sterling Bank’s security team
