The most rewarding part of my internship was having the opportunity to apply what I learned in the classroom to real world cybersecurity settings while contributing to meaningful projects. Rather than simply observing, I was trusted with assignments that directly supported the University’s Information Security Office, including reviewing security policies, investigating suspicious network activity using, participating in vulnerability assessments and penetration testing, and creating documentation of the University’s Network Security Monitoring Environment. Being able to contribute to documentation that will help future interns and employees better understand the University’s security infrastructure was especially rewarding because it allowed me to leave a lasting contribution beyond my internship.
Throughout the internship, I developed both my technical and professional skills. Technically, I strengthened my understanding of network security monitoring, intrusion detection systems, vulnerability management, threat analysis, and cybersecurity governance. I also gained hands-on experience working with enterprise security tools and learned how multiple security technologies integrate to detect, analyze, and respond to potential threats. Professionally, I improved my technical writing, documentation, communication, and collaboration skills by working alongside cybersecurity analysts, network administrators, and system administrators. Participating in weekly IT roundtable meetings also gave me valuable insight into how different departments work together to make security decisions and manage organizational risk.
Overall, this internship exceeded my expectations and confirmed that cybersecurity is the career path I want to pursue. It reinforced that protecting an organization requires much more than technical knowledge; it also depends on strong communication, documentation, teamwork, and continuous learning. The experience gave me greater confidence in my abilities and provided practical experience that will benefit me as I continue my education and work toward a career in cybersecurity.
– Alex Steele, Cybercrime & Homeland Security 2027
It’s incredible that you were able to gain hands-on experience during your time with the University’s Information Security Office! Learning from the professionals that protect our technological infrastructure every day allows you to develop a deeper understanding of the work that goes into safeguarding our educational experience. Better yet, being trusted to participate in work gives you opportunities to apply everything you’ve been learning in the classroom and use it to make positive impacts in our Royal community.
Alex, I am happy to hear that your time spent at The University of Scranton Information Technology has left you with great impact! It’s amazing to hear that your experience has left you with helpful skills and also assisted you with applying them into your future career! I am excited for you and your future that you have ahead of you. Best of luck.
You were able to work on a lot this summer and gained many skills and experiences. I’m glad the internship helped you solidify your career goals! Great job!