About Me
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Hello, my name is Jean Colon, and I am from Tampa, Florida. My major is Information Science with a concentration in Intelligence Analysis. I became interested in this field because my uncle encouraged me to explore it. He explained that it was a field that offered many different career opportunities, and I must admit he was right. Initially, he suggested that I investigate intelligence analysis because of a colleague in the FBI who described it as a challenging and demanding profession. That recommendation sparked my interest in the field, but the more I studied it, the more fascinating opportunities I discovered.
Throughout my BSIS education at the University of South Florida, I developed a solid foundation in information analysis, research, data interpretation, and, most memorably, geospatial technologies. While my primary focus was intelligence analysis, the program exposed me to a broad range of topics that emphasized critical thinking, information management, and analytical reasoning.
One of the most memorable areas of my education was geospatial analysis. Through my coursework, I had the opportunity to use ArcGIS Pro and drone-based mapping technologies. I learned how geographic data can be collected and analyzed to support decision-making processes. Working with spatial data allowed me to understand how location-based information is used in fields such as intelligence and public safety. These experiences further strengthened my interest in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geospatial intelligence.
In addition to geospatial technologies, the BSIS program exposed me to data analysis, programming, and research methodologies. I gained experience transforming raw data into meaningful information through various projects involving data interpretation and evaluation. Exposure to programming languages such as Java and R gave me a fundamental understanding of how technology can be used to solve problems and support information-driven decision-making. Another area that was significantly strengthened was my written communication, teamwork, and analytical abilities through research papers, presentations, and group projects.
Although my professional experience has primarily been in the hospitality industry, including positions as a bartender and server, I strongly believe these experiences have provided me with valuable transferable skills. Working in fast-paced environments taught me how to communicate effectively with a variety of people while remaining composed under pressure. It also taught me how to manage multiple priorities efficiently and adapt to constantly changing situations. Overall, my experience in hospitality strengthened my attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills, all of which are highly transferable to information-related careers.
As I near the completion of my Bachelor of Science in Information Science degree, my goal is to pursue a career as an Intelligence Analyst. I am particularly interested in roles that involve gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information to support decision-making. Throughout my academic journey, I realized that I enjoy identifying patterns and using different systems to solve complex problems. I previously mentioned Geographic Information Systems and geospatial intelligence because of the significant impact they had on me. My experience with ArcGIS Pro demonstrated how powerful geographic data can be when used to support investigations and operational planning.
Technology will continue to play an increasingly important role in the intelligence field, and I believe professionals who can combine analytical skills with geospatial expertise will be highly valuable. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), careers that rely on analytical, critical-thinking, and technical skills are expected to remain in demand as organizations increasingly depend on data-driven decision-making. For this reason, I plan to continue developing my GIS skills and pursue professional certifications after graduation.
In combination with my GIS skills, I aim to expand my knowledge of drone technologies and their applications in data collection, mapping, and intelligence gathering. In the near future, one of my goals is to obtain additional drone-related training and certifications that will broaden my technical abilities and create new professional opportunities.
My journey through the Bachelor of Science in Information Science program at the University of South Florida has provided me with a strong foundation in information analysis, research, and communication. Through various projects and hands-on experience with tools such as ArcGIS Pro, I developed skills that have prepared me for a career in the intelligence field. As the chapter of earning my degree comes to a close, a new chapter begins as I pursue opportunities within the intelligence profession. Ultimately, my goal is to build a career that combines analytical practices with evolving technology to help organizations solve the complex challenges they face in an increasingly data-driven world.
References
GIS Certification Institute. (n.d.). Learn more. https://www.gisci.org/Learn-More
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Operations research analysts. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/operations-research-analysts.htm