Starting my journey in the ICT industry 20 years ago, I have always been driven by my passion for technology. Over the years, I have worn different hats, from a network engineer in 2010 to a network infrastructure manager for a bank in 2017. Along the way, I discovered my growing interest in network security, which eventually led me to pursue a career in cybersecurity. For the past five years, I have been deeply involved in the field, and my desire to keep up with the evolving landscape drove me to seek further education.
Why the Master of Science in Cybersecurity Program Caught My Eye
In recent years, I’ve witnessed an increasing number of cybersecurity threats, not only in my workplace but also globally. Living in Malawi, where digital fraud has become rampant, I knew I needed to deepen my knowledge and understanding of how to combat such threats, especially in digital forensics. This was the key driver that led me to embark on a Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree with EC-Council University. The program offered exactly what I was looking for—a comprehensive education that could give me the tools to tackle cyber fraud, understand forensic analysis, and strengthen my expertise in combating these modern challenges.
How My Master of Science in Cybersecurity Degree Transformed My Career
Obtaining my Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree has undoubtedly made a significant impact on my career. In 2020, I was managing the IT infrastructure and networks for the bank. By 2021, I had stepped up to become the Head of Information Technology. The Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree gave me the additional credentials I needed to back up my 20 years of experience. It wasn’t just about gaining a degree—it was about proving my capabilities in IT risk management, governance, and overall cybersecurity leadership. This credential has helped me review the risk profile for my institution and refine our IT governance processes, making me more effective in my role.
How Master of Science in Cybersecurity is Recognized in My Organization and Beyond
Since earning my degree, I have had several colleagues inquire about where I obtained my credentials, and I have proudly referred them to EC-Council University. My degree has not only boosted my professional profile but also helped raise awareness of the university in my industry. Working in the banking sector, where many of my peers are in finance roles, I often get asked about my journey in cybersecurity. Although some have expressed concerns about the cost of the program, the value it brings in terms of knowledge and career advancement outweighs the investment.
Did Master of Science in Cybersecurity Help Me Get a Promotion?
Yes, the Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree undoubtedly helped elevate my career. While having strong credentials wasn’t a strict requirement for my current role, it gave me the boost I needed to secure the position of Head of Information Technology. Without the degree, I may not have been considered for the promotion or perhaps would have faced more
competition for the role. The knowledge I gained in IT management, risk management, and governance has been invaluable in helping me navigate the complex challenges of this leadership position.
Giving back to the community through my cybersecurity expertise?
Through the knowledge gained from the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, I have been able to give back to my community by raising awareness about cybersecurity, both within my organization and beyond. At work, I mentor colleagues and provide insights into how we can better protect ourselves from cyber threats. Outside of work, I engage with peers to spread the importance of cybersecurity in our increasingly digital world.
My Favorite Part of the Master of Science in Cybersecurity Program
The part of the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program that resonated with me the most was learning how to profile a hacker’s mindset. Understanding cybercriminals’ thought processes and strategies has given me a unique perspective on improving our security measures. By putting myself in their shoes, I have been able to implement stronger defenses for my organization. This was, without a doubt, the most intriguing and valuable aspect of my studies.
Message for the team at EC-Council University
I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and experiences that EC-Council University provided, which have undoubtedly contributed to my success. The Master of Science in Cybersecurity program gave me the tools to apply cybersecurity concepts to real-world scenarios, and I have been able to put this knowledge into practice in my day-to-day activities. I am incredibly grateful to the university and its team for providing such a thorough and challenging program. It has been a key part of my journey, and I highly recommend the program to anyone looking to advance in the field of cybersecurity.
