Page 24 - Cybersecurity Career Guide, 4th Edition

join a camp or competition
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Ways to Get Involved
Both learning and fun can be had at cybersecurity competitions and camps. And when you’re done, the technical skills and teamwork experience you gain from participating will have community colleges, universities, the military, and employers tak- ing a serious interest in your good time. Major government agencies and private-sector companies collaborate to sponsor competitions and financially support student participation, so playing games can lead to finding scholarships, internships, and mentors. In fact, says Kammy Sanghera, Executive Director of STEM Outreach at George Mason University, that is just what the sponsors intend.
GenCyber Camps
Offered at over 150 locations in 44 states (plus D.C. and Puerto Rico) in 2023, these FREE camps are open to middle and high school students and teachers, re- gardless of experience, and are hosted by public and private schools as well as colleges and universities. Each is a unique, week-long residential program. Camps can have different kinds of specific objectives, but all are designed to grow and spread campers’ knowledge of cybersecurity and careers and build up skills and awareness of safe online practices. For in- stance, UT-Austin’s GenCyber camp has incorporated an Escape Room challenge, as seen in the photo above. In addition to having a great time, participants can develop their networks of friends and mentors. Find those near you using the GenCyber website (gen- cyber.com) and check out the video. With GenCyber, you can’t beat the scope or the price — thank you, NSA and National Science Foundation.
Security Advisor Alliance Converge Tour
This program connects middle school, high school, and college students with working cybersecurity pro- fessionals to inspire and engage the next generation of cyber talent. Their interactive workshop allows students to test-drive careers in cybersecurity in a real-world-applicable way. Local mentors work through challenges with students that teach analyti- cal thinking skills, teamwork, and creativity. The Alli- ance’s gamified Capture the Flag experience teaches students the skills and tools being used to defend the largest companies in the world. The day is capped with a discussion on career pathways and available resources to help guide students to a fulfilling future in the industry. For more info on the Converge Tour and the Security Advisor Alliance, visit https://www .securityadvisoralliance.org.