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Jalen Neal

Headshot of Jalen Neal
"Nothing in life is worthwhile unless you take risks. Fall forward."- Denzel Washington

Jalen Everette Neal is from Springfield, Virginia and is a 3rd year in Computer engineering with a focus in Machine Learning and Cybersecurity with a GPA of 3.42. He says the best thing about being a Virginia Tech engineer is the connections he can build throughout the program. When he was in middle school, he dreamt of being a software engineer.

Now that he’s at Virginia Tech he aspires to make Jalen Technologies a leader in Machine Learning and Cybersecurity development. Jalen says that if he could change one thing, he would lower barriers to accessing cultural knowledge. He believes that more vulnerable conversations would yield a greater understanding.

Jalen is currently involved with Help Me Help You, Alumni Student relations, and he’s a member of NSBE. He also volunteers by being a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and serves as an executive board member for the Student African American Brotherhood, Black Organizations Council, and Black Male Excellence Network.

Jalen says his role model is his father because he’s a depiction of what success looks like. He has a cocker spaniel named Kobe. He mentioned that his favorite cartoon character is Huey because he is years ahead, a forward thinker, and a protector of black rights. Jalen also shared that his favorite genre of music is RnB, and his favorite film is The Pursuit of Happiness.