Reflecting on my internship journey, there were several factors that contributed to its success. Firstly, the unwavering support and guidance from Professor Duvall and industry expert Greg Tomchick played a pivotal role. Professor Duvall’s nurturing approach made us feel valued and motivated, while Greg Tomchick’s insights into cybersecurity and risk assessment were invaluable. Their mentorship not only provided us with knowledge but also instilled in us a sense of confidence and direction as we navigated the complexities of our roles as consultants.
Additionally, the structured approach to design thinking and empathy from Dr. Sanzo, coupled with Greg Tomchick’s top 10 checklist, provided a solid framework for our assessments and reports. These tools not only helped us understand the theoretical aspects but also equipped us with practical skills that we could apply in real-world scenarios. As a result, we were able to approach our tasks with clarity and purpose, ensuring that our efforts were focused and impactful.
However, amidst these positive experiences, there were organizational challenges that detracted from the overall experience. The internship lacked consistency in scheduling, leading to confusion regarding class attendance and other activities. While the freedom granted some flexibility, it also resulted in some students being consistently late or absent. A more structured approach to scheduling and attendance could have greatly improved the overall experience, providing a sense of stability and predictability for all participants.
On a personal level, I learned valuable lessons throughout the internship. If given the chance to redo the project, I would approach interviews, such as the one with Ms. Vincent from Origami Software Solutions, with greater confidence and better-prepared questions. Initially, I underestimated my own capabilities and questioned the quality of my questions. However, as the internship progressed, I gained a deeper understanding of the subject matter and grew more comfortable in my role. Looking back, I recognize the significance of self-assurance and the value of asking insightful questions, as it can greatly enhance the quality of our interactions and the depth of our insights.
Reflecting on the objectives outlined in the Memorandum of Agreement, the internship largely fulfilled my primary learning goals. I developed effective communication skills and gained the ability to articulate cybersecurity concepts, thanks to the guidance of Dr. Sanzo and Greg Tomchick. Additionally, I learned how to conduct risk assessments and collaborate effectively with team members. However, while I acquired knowledge in securing network infrastructure for small businesses, there were areas where I could have delved deeper, particularly in practical application. It would have been great to be able to actually go to the client’s business but that was not possible as it would have been a privacy issue as she works at home.
One of the most motivating aspects of the internship was witnessing the impact of our work through the development of our report. Collaborating with my group, each member utilizing their strengths, made the process rewarding and relatively stress-free. Seeing our efforts come to life reaffirmed the value of our hard work and dedication. It was a testament to what can be achieved when individuals come together with a shared vision and a commitment to excellence.
Conversely, the most discouraging aspect was facing repeated rejection from small businesses when offering free cybersecurity risk assessments. It was disheartening to encounter skepticism and mistrust, despite our genuine intentions to assist. However, this experience taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance.
Undoubtedly, the most challenging aspect of the internship was conducting independent risk assessments at small businesses. Stepping out of our comfort zones to interact with stakeholders and assess cybersecurity vulnerabilities was nerve-wracking. Yet, it was a crucial learning experience that honed my communication skills and ability to handle rejection. It pushed me to confront my fears and develop a greater sense of self-reliance, which will undoubtedly serve me well in my future endeavors.
For future interns, I recommend enhancing cybersecurity knowledge and practicing simplifying complex concepts for non-experts. Additionally, preparation should include developing confidence in asking questions during client interactions and honing time management skills to meet deadlines effectively. By investing in these areas, interns can maximize their potential for success and make the most of their internship experience.
In conclusion, my internship experience was incredibly enriching and impactful. It reinforced the importance of teamwork, resilience, and effective communication in a professional setting. Moving forward, I will carry forward the lessons learned from this experience throughout my remaining time at ODU and into my future professional endeavors. It has provided me with a solid foundation upon which to build my career and has instilled in me a sense of confidence and purpose that will guide me in all my future endeavors.