Why did you choose to do a placement; and why here?
I wanted to gain industry experience, and more critically, industry contacts. Having a degree in computer forensics does present itself with a narrow scope of job opportunities, Pairing the degree with an industry placement in cyber security opened up new opportunities for me, and furthermore, secured me employment.
Describe what you did on placement
Built PC’S, Cyber Essentials, Cyber Essentials Plus with IASME, computer forensics, hosted open days, attended events.
What did you work on?
Cyber Essentials Plus with IASME, Homeseer, Encase, Raspberry PI.
What did you enjoy about it?
Learning new skills, meeting new people.
What were the highlights; any particular achievements you want to shout about?
Learning about the auditing aspect of IT.
How will this placement help your career?
The skills I picked up from the Cyber security auditing aspect of the placement directly impacted my job outcome. My job title is, IT technician and Cyber Security Auditor.
How did you find about the placement and how did you apply?
The placement was advertised within USW.
How do you feel returning back to USW after the placement?
Excited for year 3 and the prospect of securing a job post university.
Has the placement led to a job offer or anything else such as fees to be paid; a research opportunity?
The placement did not lead to a job, however, the skills I gathered from the placement have led to a job.