Securitas LLP: Bridging Education with Real-World Cybersecurity Experience

Virginia Tech's new Cybersecurity Living-Learning Program (LLP), Securitas, launched in Fall 2024, connects students with industry professionals and provides a unique blend of academic and practical learning. Applications for current students are open from September 30 to November 22, 2024, with new student applications beginning in January 2025. For details, visit https://llp.vt.edu/apply.html.

Living-Learning Programs at Virginia Tech enhance student experiences by integrating classroom learning with residential life. Securitas, spearheaded by the Integrated Security Education and Research Center (ISERC), focuses on preparing students to tackle modern cybersecurity challenges. A panel of four experts kicked off the semester, sharing their insights on evolving technologies and professional growth.

The panel included:

• Ke'niah Williams, a student at Virginia State University with experience in security compliance.
• Eva Baaza, a Security Risk Engineer at GRCIE, specializing in security processes and infrastructure development.
• Preeti Ravindra, a Principal Research Engineer at Expel, working on emerging technologies and security research.
• Shinesa Cambric, Principal Product Manager at Microsoft, focused on threat detection and cybersecurity solutions.

Students were introduced to cutting-edge topics like artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, and professional skills essential for success in the cybersecurity field. “I thought AI would be more of a problem than a solution in cybersecurity,” shared one student, Jia Xi, after hearing how AI can play a significant role in securing systems.

Beyond technical skills, the experts emphasized the importance of continuous learning and soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. “Certifications are important, but what really matters is how you apply the knowledge and stay adaptable,” noted a student, Saxon, reflecting on the discussions.

Dr. Arianna Schuler Scott, Securitas’ Academic Coordinator, highlighted the value of these industry connections: “Panels like these help students link cybersecurity skills to critical organizational objectives. Understanding how to communicate the importance of security to decision-makers ensures that these initiatives get the attention and resources they need.”

Throughout the semester, students will continue to engage with professionals and refine their own cybersecurity paths. The program encourages networking and continuous skill development, setting students up for success in this rapidly evolving field.

Securitas was developed in collaboration with the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative, the Hume Center for National Security and Technology, and Pamplin College of Business. Director Shanti Freeman now leads the effort to foster an interdisciplinary approach to cybersecurity education.

For more information about partnerships or getting involved, contact securitas@vt.edu. Keep up with Securitas on Instagram (@vtsecuritasllc) and explore opportunities to engage with the Women's Society of Cyberjutsu, a key partner in connecting students with professionals in the field.