What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why? How has the programme/specialisation challenged you (in relation to your previous education)?
I really like that the curriculum covers almost every aspect of cybersecurity, which is very important for someone new to the field or aspiring to be a cybersecurity expert. Another great part of the programme is the two research and thesis internship opportunities, allowing students to gain real-world experience in companies. This not only helps in understanding practical cybersecurity challenges but also provides exposure to the Dutch working culture.
The programme was challenging at first because it required more independent research and self-learning than my previous education. Adapting to a new education system while balancing hands-on projects with theory helped me improve my problem-solving and time management skills.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class?
The classroom atmosphere is very interactive and friendly, which was also a new experience for me. I appreciate how open the professors are to questions, whether they relate directly to the lecture or are based on personal experiences. They create a learning environment where no question feels silly. This makes it easy to ask anything without hesitation, knowing that curiosity is always encouraged.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?
Yes, I did face some challenges, especially in the initial stage. The education system here is quite different from what I was used to in Bangladesh and India, so I initially struggled with adapting to new study methods, note taking, and exam preparation. However, I gradually found my way by actively reaching out to study advisors, professors, and fellow classmates. Their support and guidance were very helpful, and over time, I was able to adjust and develop effective learning strategies.
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
I recently completed my internship at SURF, where I worked on VPN traffic analysis and censorship circumvention techniques. I am about to start my thesis at TNO, focusing on "Virtual shop floor segmentation."
Why do you think it is important that there are people with this degree? What are your plans once you have received your Master's degree?
Cybersecurity has never been more important, especially with the rise of AI, which is both a tool for defense and a weapon for attackers. Organisations are constantly facing new risks to their data and infrastructure, making it crucial to have experts who can anticipate, mitigate, and respond to attacks. A Master’s degree in Cybersecurity focuses on technical knowledge but also provides hands-on experience, research opportunities, and critical thinking skills to navigate the ever-evolving threat landscape.
After completing my degree, I plan to work in a role that focuses on offensive security, red teaming, or cybersecurity research. I am particularly interested in penetration testing, attack methodologies and application security.