DoIT Student Digital Stories: Joshua Cheeks

Follow Joshua's story as he shares how connections made at DoIT have shaped his career aspirations. Discover the impact of friendships and networking in his journey towards becoming a cybersecurity expert.

Image: Josh carrying a laptop in the AV workspace with tech supplies in the background. 

At the heart of any dynamic academic environment lies a myriad of opportunities for growth, both personal and professional. Joshua Cheeks, a senior computer science major at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), is a testament to this fact. His journey through academia, coupled with his role at the Division of Information Technology (DoIT), exemplifies how university experiences can profoundly shape one's career trajectory and personal development.

Joining the AV Department

Joshua Cheeks’s time at UMBC has been complemented by his work at the AV department under DoIT. For close to two years, he has immersed himself in the daily operations that keep the department running smoothly. This position has not only allowed him to apply his computer science knowledge in practical settings but has also rendered every day an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Building Meaningful Connections

One of the most impactful aspects of Joshua's journey has been the relationships he has built during his time at DoIT. He emphasizes the importance of these connections, stating that the friends and networks he has established with both his co-workers and superiors have had a significant positive impact on his life. These relationships have not only made his work environment more enjoyable but also extended beyond professional boundaries, fostering personal growth and development.

Team Bonding Moments

In recounting his experiences, Joshua highlights a fond memory: his team watching a movie in PAHB 132 after completing a project. Such moments of camaraderie underscore the importance of teamwork and the bonds formed in the collaborative efforts required in the AV department.

Advice for New Employees

Joshua has valuable advice for newcomers to the DoIT student workforce. He encourages them to engage actively with their colleagues and supervisors. Making connections, he notes, is crucial as these relationships can be beneficial in the future. The friendly and approachable environment at DoIT, according to him, is conducive to fostering these exchanges.

Pursuing Higher Education

Looking ahead, Joshua aspires to further his education by pursuing a master's degree in cybersecurity. This advanced study will equip him with the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the cybersecurity landscape.

Career Goals

Joshua’s ultimate career goal is to become a Security Operations Center (SOC) analyst in the cybersecurity field. This role involves monitoring and analyzing an organization's security systems to detect and mitigate threats. It is a critical position within the cybersecurity domain, requiring a keen eye for detail, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of cyber threats and defense mechanisms.

The Impact of UMBC and DoIT

1. Personal and Professional Growth: Joshua attributes much of his personal and professional growth to his time at UMBC and his involvement with DoIT. The university environment has challenged him to become a better person and a more diligent worker, pushing him to strive for excellence in all his endeavors.

1. Networking Opportunities: The connections he has formed with a diverse group of individuals, from fellow students to faculty and staff at DoIT, have broadened his perspective and provided him with a supportive network that he can rely on as he advances in his career.

1. Skill Development:His responsibilities at the AV department have allowed Joshua to develop a range of skills that are directly applicable to his future career goals. From technical proficiencies in managing audio-visual equipment to soft skills like effective communication and teamwork, Joshua has gained a holistic set of competencies that will serve him well in his future roles.

Joshua Cheeks’s journey at UMBC and the Division of Information Technology is a prime example of how university experiences can play a pivotal role in shaping one's career and personal development. His story illustrates the value of seizing opportunities, building meaningful relationships, and continually striving for growth. As Joshua looks to the future, with aspirations of becoming a SOC analyst and obtaining a master's degree in cybersecurity, it is evident that the foundations laid during his time at UMBC and DoIT will continue to support and guide him.

Next on his journey, Josh will be graduating in May 2025 from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, with a BS in Computer Science. Congratulations Joshua!

Watch his complete video here!