Follow Anna Plass's journey in information systems and cybersecurity in the Division of Information Technology (DoIT), discovering the importance of professional skills, teamwork, and continuous learning in the field.

My Journey in Information Systems and Cybersecurity Assurance

Hello everyone, I’m Anna Plass, a senior currently advancing my education in Information Systems with a minor in Computer Science. I am also working in Cybersecurity Assurance and Digital Trust, focusing on safeguarding systems and data within a corporate environment. Through my experiences, I've developed a unique perspective on what it takes to thrive in this dynamic and ever-evolving field.

Starting Point: Joining DoIT

I embarked on my journey with DoIT in June 2024, a decision that marked the start of an exciting chapter in my educational and professional development. At DoIT, I've been fortunate to engage with numerous projects, particularly those that make extensive use of our various security tools.

The Puzzle of Cybersecurity

One of the most exhilarating aspects of working in cybersecurity is the investigative nature of the job. Often, you only have fragments of a story, and your task is to find the missing pieces and fit them together like a puzzle. This detective work keeps the job fascinating, as every day presents a new challenge or mystery to solve, ensuring that no two days are ever the same.

Professional Growth

Communication Skills

Working at DoIT has significantly impacted my future, offering me innumerable opportunities to hone essential professional skills. One of the key areas of growth has been in communication across different departments. Effective communication is critical in cybersecurity, as it ensures that everyone is on the same page regarding security protocols and threat assessments.

Technical Writing

Likewise, technical writing is another skill I’ve sharpened during my time here. Being able to document processes, write reports, and create clear instructions is vital in cybersecurity assurance. DoIT has provided a robust platform for me to develop these skills.

Time Management

Time management, often overlooked, is crucial in this field. Balancing multiple responsibilities, ensuring the timely completion of tasks, and effectively prioritizing work are all skills I’ve developed through my projects at DoIT.

Creating Memories

Apart from the professional growth, my time at DoIT has also been about creating memories with my colleagues. One of the most enjoyable traditions we've maintained involves getting lunch together frequently during summer and winter breaks. These moments away from the office foster a sense of camaraderie and bond us as a team, making the work environment supportive and enjoyable.

Advice for New Students

For any new student joining DoIT, my advice is simple: never be afraid to ask questions. When you first join, it’s likely you won't have extensive experience in the field. Recognize that you are in a learning phase, and the full-time staff are there to help you gain these essential skills and experiences. Asking questions enables you to understand better and perform your duties more effectively.

Looking Forward

As I look to the future, I plan on staying with DoIT over the summer. This extended period will allow me to thoroughly explore various job opportunities in cybersecurity. The additional time at DoIT will not only bolster my experience but also provide more chances to refine my skills further before stepping out into the broader job market.

Concluding Thoughts

Working at DoIT has been an incredibly rewarding experience, providing me with a solid foundation in cybersecurity. The skills I've developed, the puzzles I've solved, and the bonds I've formed will undoubtedly serve me well as I continue to pursue my passion for cybersecurity. I look forward to applying these experiences to future opportunities and continuing to grow within this thrilling and essential field.

Shout-out from DoIT!

Next on her journey, Anna will be graduating in May 2025 from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, with a BS in Information Systems and a minor in Computer Science. Congratulations Anna!

Watch her complete video here!

The first draft of the above announcement was generated using AI and edited by the Division of Information Technology Communications and IT teams.