Finding purpose—and chasing it relentlessly—is the ultimate game changer in creating a fulfilling life. For Omar Navar, a transfer student from Los Angeles City College, who took classes at Los Angeles Mission College now majoring in Computer Information Systems here at the College of Business and Economics, discovering his passion for cybersecurity has transformed not only his academic journey but the trajectory of his future. Today, he is diving headfirst into his craft, sharpening his skills, competing, earning recognition, and building the foundation for a thriving career.
Omar’s dedication recently earned him the prestigious GMIS (Great Minds in STEM) Scholarship, an award ranging from $500 to $5,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to the national GMIS Conference in San Diego. The conference brings together STEM students—from undergraduates to Ph.D. candidates—to engage in hands-on workshops, explore groundbreaking research, and network with scholars and industry leaders across the country. For Omar, it was a moment of affirmation and expansion, giving him both exposure and confidence in his growing expertise.
His journey, however, didn’t begin with certainty. Like many students navigating the challenges of the pandemic, Omar found himself moving through school without direction. He passed his classes but didn’t feel connected or inspired. What did remain constant, though, was his natural inclination toward hands-on work. “As far back as a child, I can recall enjoying fixing things and repairing items back together,” he shared.
That spark resurfaced when he took classes at LA Mission College. Initially considering engineering, he found the heavy theory less compelling than he expected. Cybersecurity, on the other hand, felt like the perfect fit—practical, challenging, and aligned with his instinct to tinker, troubleshoot, and build. It was at Mission where Omar met Javier Rios, a professor who saw his potential early on. Dr. Rios became a mentor and guiding force, encouraging Omar to apply for the GMIS Scholarship while he was completing an internship in summer 2024.
Behind Omar’s transformation is also the unwavering support of his family. His parents have stood by him through every shift in direction, reminding him that his path is worth pursuing as long as it brings him joy and fulfillment. But it is his sister who has noticed the most profound change. She sees an excitement, confidence, and happiness radiating from Omar—something she shares wasn’t always there before he found his purpose. For his family, watching him grow into himself has been both inspiring and affirming.
With renewed purpose, Omar threw himself into the world of cybersecurity. He joined Mission X, a student organization focused on tech and cybersecurity competitions, and upon transferring to Cal State LA, he became a member of the Claw Command, where he continues to grow through hands-on practice and competitive challenges. He has also obtained his CompTIA Security+ certification, a credential that significantly strengthens his technical foundation and industry readiness.
For Omar, learning is a lifelong pursuit. “Learning is a journey,” he says. “You should enjoy your education. If you find you do not like it, take a detour until you enjoy it. I started in computer engineering, and I did not like it, so I switched. Now I have something I love, which is cybersecurity.”
Omar’s story is a testament to what becomes possible when passion meets persistence. By trusting the process, embracing guidance, honoring his curiosity, and leaning on the support of his loved ones, he has not only found his purpose—he is living it.
