My experience outside the classroom mainly comes from my internships, where I applied what I learned in real environments.

As a SOC Analyst Intern at Old Dominion University, I investigated over 150 phishing emails each month using Microsoft 365 Defender, Entra ID, and URL analysis tools. I analyzed suspicious activity, determined if it was malicious, and helped prevent potential account compromises. I also investigated risky users and login activity using SIEM tools, MFA logs, and identity platforms. I performed threat hunting and alert correlation across Azure, CrowdStrike, Palo Alto firewalls, and QRadar SIEM. This helped me understand how attacks are detected and how different tools work together. I followed incident response procedures and supported containment actions when needed. I also worked with firewall rules, which gave me experience with network level security.

Before that, I worked as an IT Technician Intern at Metro Logistics. I supported systems across Windows, Linux, Kali Linux, and macOS. I fixed technical issues, set up devices, and helped maintain network connectivity. I also worked on hardware setups and troubleshooting, which built my foundation in IT. With all that it helped me connect directly to cybersecurity. I moved from learning concepts in class to actually applying them in real situations. I gained hands on experience with tools, learned how to analyze threats, and understood how security operations work day to day. These experiences will help me in the future by preparing me for a full time security role. I have real experience investigating threats, working with security tools, and responding to incidents. I also understand how to work in a team and adapt in a fast paced environment.