This is a guest post written by Arnav from Manhattan Center For Science & Mathematics: New York. He became a National Cyber Scholar through CyberStart America 2022/2023 and the National Cyber Scholarship Foundation.

“I'm excited about exploring new opportunities, contributing to the cybersecurity community, and making a positive impact in the digital landscape.”

Arnav shares his experience of CyberStart America and how it feels to become a National Cyber Scholar.

How would you describe your experience of this year's CyberStart program?

The program was very challenging and intellectually stimulating. I loved solving problems and figuring out the solutions. Throughout my journey, I faced challenges and occasional frustrations while tackling complex puzzles in the cyber challenge rooms. However, those experiences have played a crucial role in my growth and eventual success.

The interactive game provided a fantastic opportunity for me to learn and gain practical insights into real-world cyber scenarios. All those late nights and occasional frustrations, trying to figure out what's wrong in the code or how to go about performing an attack on a system, have finally paid off, and I'm grateful for this recognition.

How do you feel about becoming a Scholar?

I feel great, and my self-confidence has increased. Winning this award has further motivated me to continue my personal and professional growth. I'm excited about exploring new opportunities, contributing to the cybersecurity community, and making a positive impact in the digital landscape. Being recognized as a National Cyber Scholar is truly humbling, and I'm grateful for this opportunity.

“Winning this award has further motivated me to continue my personal and professional growth.”

Do you have plans to continue your cybersecurity studies?

I will be majoring in computer science at Rutgers New Brunswick (SAS) University.

Before participating in this year's program, were you considering a career in cybersecurity?

I wasn't considering working in the cybersecurity industry, but I was intrigued by it. After doing the program, I am very much interested in getting a career in cybersecurity.

Since participating in this year's program, are you now considering a career in cybersecurity?

Yes I am, because now I'm aware of a lot of opportunities that I didn't know before.

How did participating in CyberStart America help you develop your cybersecurity skills?

It allowed me to learn how to teach myself skills, which itself is a great and essential skill to have in the field of computer science.

Any final comments?

I was extremely happy to find this opportunity. This not only helped define my career journey but also assisted in providing me with knowledge and opportunity about the things that I love to learn the most about.

Want to explore new possibilities in a cybersecurity career like Arnav? Follow the path to career success through the free CyberStart America program. Or check out Cyber FastTrack if you’re a college student in the US.