What made you decide to choose your specific major?
I chose the Polytechnic Institute because I wanted a hands-on experience where I could apply what I learn in lecture during labs that simulate real-world business environments and scenarios. As for Cybersecurity, I wanted to play a role in helping protect people and their information online, making them feel safer in an increasingly digital world.
What are a couple of your favorite things about your program of study?
I definitely love how hands-on the cybersecurity program is. It makes the material a lot easier and fun to learn when we are able to apply technical concepts to solve real-world problems. Moreover, there are also many oppurtunities for collaboration which I greatly appreciate, because I get to meet new people in my major, learn from their perspectives, and approach problems in new ways.
What has been on of your favorite class projects?
One of my favorite class projects was building a security camera system using a Raspberry Pi and MotionEye. It was my first time working with a Raspberry Pi, so I really enjoyed learning how it worked and troubleshooting an unfamiliar device. It was especially rewarding to see the system work in real time and understand how the different components came together to create a practical security solution. Most importantly, I walked away from the project having learned how to use a completely new tool and device!
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
I'm involved in Purdue's Women in Cybersecurity program, where I had the opportunity to attend their annual conference in Dallas, Texas. I learned a lot from women in the industry about their experiences and how they navigated the cybersecurity field. I'm also involved in InnovateHer, a women-centric hackathon at Purdue, as an organizer on the Program Committee, where I help plan the event schedule and run of show.
What do you know about your program of study now that you wish someone had told you when you were choosing a major?
I wish someone had told me how valuable it is to get involved in cybersecurity-related clubs and connect with upperclassmen. They've already taken many of the same classes and experienced the challenges that come with the major, so their advice and mentorship can be incredibly helpful. Getting involved has helped me learn from their experiences and feel more confident navigating the program.
What would be one piece of advice for prospective students or new Purdue students?
My biggest piece of advice would be to definitely put yourself out there by attending events or getting involved with clubs, even if they aren't related to your major. This is a great way to meet new people, explore your interests, and have something to look forward to outside of class. It's also completely okay to ask for help, because everyone around you is either in the same situation as you or has been in your place before!