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Cybersecurity Expert Panel

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Collaboration

Panel Pictures

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What I Learned

  • Adaptability is essential:
    • David Tomasz from the FBI shared that sometimes you’re thrown into situations you don’t expect, and you have to learn quickly and adapt, especially in tech roles like cybersecurity.
  • Integrity and Honesty matters:
    • Tricia Mercer explained how someone within an organization was stealing data and selling it, which highlighted how important honesty and trust are in this field.
  • Security starts with basics:
    • Many people don’t know basic security practices, which creates major vulnerabilities. There needs to be more education around this.
  • Zero-day vulnerabilities are dangerous:
    • These are security flaws with no known fix.
    • For example, if a hacker inserts a fake Microsoft update into the cloud, many systems could be compromised.

Key Takeaways

  • Be curious and cautious:
    • Always ask questions and stay alert when working with data and technology.
  • Cybersecurity is a growing field:
    • Victor Nzeata discussed how security tasks like identifying and deleting old, lingering data are essential. Jobs in areas like healthcare IT and AI security are on the rise.
  • Soft skills are important:
    • Being kind, reliable, and a strong communicator is just as valuable as being technically skilled.
  • Ethical hacking is a valuable tool:
    • Building and testing your own systems or networks can help you learn real-world skills.
  • Make technical ideas easy to understand:
    • Tricia Mercer pointed out that when working with businesses, you need to explain complex ideas in simple language they can act on.
  • Group work teaches flexibility:
    • David Tomasz also noted that in team projects, there’s always someone who doesn’t pull their weight. Learning how to work around that is part of being successful.

What I Plan To Do Next

  • Learn IT and cybersecurity basics to build a strong foundation.

  • Participate in hackathons and create my own networks to gain hands-on experience.

  • Improve my teamwork and communication skills by continuing to work with my group in CSP.

  • Stay informed about AI and cybersecurity trends to be ready for the future job market.

  • Look into certifications or internships in cybersecurity.

  • Practice explaining complex ideas clearly to non-technical audiences.

  • Join cyber classes and join the Cyber CEO club to gain more experience.