Cyber Security Consultant at KPMG
Toronto, Ontario
Profile
Why did you choose the Master of Cybersecurity and Threat Intelligence(MCTI) program at University of Guelph?
I was finishing up my undergrad in Computer Science and was unsure about what field I wanted to specialize in. After taking an introductory cryptography course in my final year, I became very interested in cybersecurity but felt I needed to learn more on the subject before pursuing a career in it. The MCTI program was a perfect fit for me because it was a one-year program that included both coursework and industry experience through the summer co-op program.
What makes MCTI’s program different from other programs you considered?
The two main differences between the MCTI program and other Master’s programs is the amount of time to complete the program and the fact that the MCTI program is course-based instead of thesis-based. While I do enjoy research and was seriously considering a thesis-based Master’s (I may go back for one yet), like a lot of students, I wanted to get my career started in order to pay off my debts. The MCTI program is only 1 year whereas thesis-based Master’s are typically 2 or more, and the final semester of the MCTI program is spent completing an industry-related project for the purpose of gaining relevant job experience.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
My favourite part about the program was the professors who taught the courses. Each one is incredibly knowledgeable and together they have a plethora of fascinating stories from their time spent working in the cybersecurity industry.
What did you like most about the City of Guelph?
I was one of those students who never strayed very far from campus. However, my favourite part about the City of Guelph would have to be The Real Deal Sports Bar on Victoria Rd!
What area of cybersecurity are you most interested in and why?
Right now I find myself torn between penetration testing and incident response/digital forensics. Penetration testing is both fun and interesting because it involves learning how to hack for the greater good. On the other hand, I am finding myself drawn to incident response/digital forensics in my current position because it is both exciting and rewarding; it involves helping a company recover from a cyber incident (usually ransomware) and conducting an investigation to figure out exactly what happened (and how it can be prevented from happening again).
What are your post graduate goals?
My main goal is to further my knowledge in cybersecurity while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
What advice would you give to prospective applicants?
My advice for prospective applicants (and this is my advice for ANYONE pursuing post secondary education) is to talk to your professors! It is far too common for students to be intimidated by their professors and therefore avoid seeking their help when struggling with a course. I can say with confidence that the professors involved with the MCTI program are all happy to help their students and are quite friendly; they hold office hours for a reason!