What made you decide to choose your specific major?
In May 2017 when the WannaCry ransomware attack happened, I watched a lot of documentaries surrounding it, and developed an interest in the idea of bypassing system defences undetected, and the offensive side of cybersecurity. I chose Purdue due to the professional alumni network and the career fair opportunities I knew about before coming here that would allow me to get into the industry fairly easier than I would anywhere else.
What are a couple of your favorite things about your program of study?
The best thing about cybersecurity is that it never overburdens you with coursework, and the labs are so hands-on that they don’t even feel like homework or academic assignments. You learn real world skills that you can apply in actual jobs related to your major.
I've been able to get interviews with Apple and Microsoft which gave me a peek into one of the best cybersecurity infrastructures around the world, which is an added bonus of pursuing this career path.
What has been one of your favorite class projects?
My favorite class project was part of the network security lab in CNIT270 - Cybersecurity Fundamentals. We performed SSH eavesdropping using Wireshark, which gave me hands-on experience with real-world traffic interception techniques that attackers might use to capture sensitive information like login credentials. What I found fascinating was that although we successfully captured the network traffic, we couldn't decrypt it due to SSH strong encryption. This really drove home the importance of secure protocols and sparked my curiosity to learn more about cryptography and advanced security measures
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
I am currently a Security Operations Analyst for Purdue Systems Security which protects and monitors all cyber assets of Purdue and its regional campuses. I also attend Purdue IT Professionals Club at the weekly meetings.
What do you know about your program of study now that you wish someone had told you when you were choosing a major?
Lot of learning will have to happen outside the classes to stand out from the crowd that will be applying for the same jobs and internships as you.
What would be one piece of advice for prospective students or new Purdue students?
Join a club or do an activity completely unrelated to your major, the amount of extracurricular opportunities will allow you to have a good time while you’re here intramural sports, painting club or blockchain club, dance club or stand up comedy club, we have everything. Everyone is welcoming and you will have a great time here.