Jason Stales

Jason is studying Criminology and Justice Informatics at Drexel, which ideally suits his interests in cybersecurity and law enforcement. This program provides him with the chance to understand why individuals are committing cyber crimes, while also providing him with the expertise required to prevent them. He aspires to use this technical background as a pathway to someday to join a federal law enforcement agency such as the FBI or DEA. For now he looks forward to his upcoming co-op at Dechert LLP, one of Philadelphia’s leading law firms, where he will serve as an IT Security Intern. He also is a Resident Assistant at Towers Hall, where he enjoys serving as a mentor to the freshman on his floor. While he spends most of his time with residents doing silly stuff like karaoke, he takes deep pride in the community he's built and believes he is helping all his residents maximize their college experience. When he’s not in class, Jason likes spending his time playing chess, running pick-up basketball at the Recreation Center, and attending Alternative music concerts throughout the city. 

The McNeil Scholarship is presenting Jason with the opportunity to spend his entire senior year at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. He has never left the country before and intends to make the most of everyday he spends abroad during this surreal experience. He plans on achieving this by partaking in different clubs and going on weekend adventures with his peers. He also views this as a chance to get out of his comfort zone and challenge himself academically. He is confident that by participating in an entirely different academic system and exposing himself to new technologies and viewpoints, he will return to the U.S with a much deeper understanding of his field that will continue to benefit him for years to come. However, what he looks forward to the most is the chance to immerse himself into another culture and to learn, explore, and make as many new friends as he possibly can.