This is a guest post written by Sriya from North Carolina. She became a Finalist in the National Cyber Scholarship Competition by playing CyberStart America.

“A year ago, I never thought I would be doing anything related to cybersecurity. To think that I am now a Finalist in this competition is absolutely mind-blowing!”

We caught up with Sriya to find out how CyberStart America helped her become a National Cyber Scholarship (NCS) Finalist, and her plans to become a Security Analyst.

How would you describe your experience of the National Cyber Scholarship Competition?

Participating in the National Cyber Scholarship Competition was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made! I was able to enhance my knowledge of computer science and learn how to use tools that I had never even heard of before! The experience of preparing for the competition with my friends was amazing! There is so much that goes into cybersecurity, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to have learned about at least a fraction of it! I loved competing, and I would do it again in a heartbeat!

“Participating in the National Cyber Scholarship Competition was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made!”

How did you prepare for the National Cyber Scholarship Competition?

Participating in CyberStart America gave me an overview of what the National Cyber Scholarship Competition would look like. I don't think I would have been able to come this far in the competition if I hadn't already practiced with CyberStart America!

“I don't think I would have been able to come this far in the competition if I hadn't already practiced with CyberStart America!”

How do you feel about becoming a Finalist in the Competition?

A year ago, I never thought I would be doing anything related to cybersecurity or computer science. To think that I am now a Finalist in this competition is absolutely mind-blowing, and I am so grateful for this opportunity!

Before participating in the National Cyber Scholarship Competition, were you considering a career in cybersecurity?

Prior to competing in the NCS Competition, I was not aware of the exciting challenges and the greatness of cybersecurity. After I did CyberStart America and the NCS Competition, I am definitely considering a career in cybersecurity! I want to work as a Security Analyst. I think it would be an interesting occupation!

“After I did CyberStart America and the NCS Competition, I am definitely considering a career in cybersecurity!”

Do you have plans to continue your cybersecurity studies?

I definitely would like to continue my studies in cybersecurity. My dream college is Carnegie Mellon, which is known for its computer science and cybersecurity programs.

Are you ready to take on the National Cyber Scholarship Competition challenges like Shiva? You can sign up for free training via CyberStart America here.