At Cyber Florida, we believe the future of cybersecurity is built by passionate individuals driven not only by innovation, but by purpose. That’s exactly what makes Ahmed Ghoneim, a doctoral student in computer science & engineering, such a powerful example. He is also the inaugural recipient of the McConnell Scholarship.

Ghoneim’s journey into technology didn’t begin in a classroom. It started with curiosity.

“As a child, I loved playing video games,” he shares. “But every time I picked up a new game, I found myself wondering, how did they build this? I wanted to create something of my own and even had ideas for how I’d do it differently.”

That early curiosity evolved into a clear sense of direction. Rather than pursuing a conventional career path, Ahmed set his sights on something bigger.

“I’ve always wanted to do more than hold a typical 9-to-5 position,” he says. “I want to contribute to society in a meaningful and lasting way. Pursuing a doctorate felt like the path that would allow me to do that through research and innovation.”

Like many graduate students, Ghoneim’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. When he first began his program, he felt isolated. But over time, he found a welcoming and collaborative community at the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Computing, an environment that helped him grow both academically and personally.

Today, as a graduate research and teaching assistant working within the Interface Research Lab, Ahmed is advancing knowledge while helping shape the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. As part of the USF NSF Research Traineeship Program, he contributes 20 hours each week to a National Science Foundation-supported project focused on building platforms for hands-on cybersecurity education, work that directly supports the development of future talent in the field.

As part of the Interface Research Lab (IRL), led by Dr. Robert Karam, he collaborated with fellow lab members on HaCKSEE, a team-driven startup concept. Together, the group participated in the Democratizing Cybersecurity Challenge at CyberBay Summit 2026, where HaCKSEE was selected as one of three featured pitches.

Receiving the first-ever McConnell Scholarship has been both an honor and a turning point.

“It’s an incredibly meaningful and humbling opportunity,” Ghoneim explains. “Beyond the recognition, it has genuinely relieved a significant amount of financial pressure in both my personal and educational life. That kind of relief allows me to focus more fully on my research and studies. I’m deeply grateful to those who made this scholarship possible.”

That impact is precisely why the McConnell Scholarship exists, and why growing its support is so important.

For doctoral students like Ghoneim, financial barriers can limit the time, energy, and focus they can devote to high-impact research. In addition to his academic and research commitments, Ghoneim also works part-time on weekends, a role that, he notes, has strengthened his time management skills. With the support of the scholarship and a strong foundation at home, including an encouraging spouse, he’s able to balance the many demands of graduate life.

Scholarships like this one don’t just ease that burden; they unlock potential. They create space for innovation. And they empower scholars to pursue work that can strengthen our cybersecurity ecosystem and benefit society.

Ghoneim credits his success not only to discipline, but to balance.

“Time management and mental stability are everything at this level,” he says. “Graduate school is demanding, and protecting your mental well-being is just as important as any academic skill. For me, that means spending quality time with my family.”

When asked how he unwinds, his answer is simple: “Spending time with my daughter and enjoying a good meal together. It’s the best reset there is.”

That sense of balance extends into how he gives back. Since January, Ghoneim has served as a mentor through the Undergraduate Research to PhD (UR2PhD) program, which connects students across academic levels to expand access to research opportunities. Through that experience, he discovered that mentorship is a two-way street.

“I realized I was learning from my mentee, not just the other way around,” he says.

Even his approach to late nights reflects a lesson learned.

“I used to rely heavily on energy drinks, and it took a toll on my health,” he shares. “Now, I stick to coffee for the most part and only reach for an energy drink when it’s truly necessary. Moderation matters.”

As the first McConnell Scholar, Ghoneim represents what’s possible when talented students are given resources to pursue their ambitions. With additional support, this scholarship can grow, expand its reach, increase its impact, and help more students like Ghoneim turn their potential into progress.

If you’re inspired by Ghoneim’s journey, consider contributing to the McConnell Scholarship fund. Your support can help empower the next generation of cybersecurity leaders.