01/10/2024
Testimonial - Towards the end of my undergraduate degree, I had not really considered applying to a Master's program. However, when I learned about the NSERC CREATE Cybersecurity Program at Queen's, I was immediately interested. Throughout the MSc by research program, I developed my skillset through my research, various courses through Queen's and RMC, and cybersecurity exercises.
Under the outstanding supervision of Dr. David Skillicorn, I successfully defended my thesis, which tackled detecting suicidal ideation in incel forums. Throughout this research, I constantly improved on my technical skills, but most importantly, problem solving with constant feedback and guidance.
One of the great things about the program, which stood out from others I had applied to, was the internship with one of their government partners. I spent twelve weeks with the Department of National Defence, where I worked on a sentiment analytics project, which tied in nicely with the course work and research I had been doing. I had a great experience with the team there and am still in contact with my supervisor on a regular basis.
Additionally, I loved the freedom to choose from a wide range of electives to fill the course requirements. I learned a lot from the assignments and really enjoyed the projects and presentations we had to do in my cryptography, and cyber space & policing courses. On top of this I partook in the tabletop exercise. Along with other members of the program we played different government agencies, and it was a great way to simulate how and what they might do when faced with a cyber incident.
Since completing the NSERC CREATE Cybersecurity Program at Queen's, I have started working in a role that I not only enjoy, but in which I am able to apply what I learned throughout my studies daily. I would highly recommend the program to anyone who has any level of interest in cybersecurity!