This interview has been edited slightly for length and clarity.
Saylor Academy: Hi Stamatina! Congratulations on earning your Saylor certificates! I was wondering how you found out about Saylor Academy and our free courses?
S: Hello! I’ve seen the Academy on a few posts on my LinkedIn network, so I gave it a try and signed up to do the two related courses with my science.
SA: Nice! May I ask what your profession is and how, if at all, the courses you took helped you in your science?
S: Sure, I have studied computer science and also I am professionally in this area since 2015 (either as system admin or cybersecurity analyst).
The related courses (CS401, CS402) were a nice and smooth reminder/revision for some technical knowledge in networking.
SA: That’s great to hear! It sounds like the courses were used as refreshers for you to stay up to date, etc.
Would you recommend these courses to experienced and/or aspiring computer science professionals?
S: Yes , definitely. I have done it already, but I will keep up in my network.
SA: Awesome! Do you have any advice for women wanting to start a career in tech?
S: I wrote something, regarding women in the Computer Science field, but I think that it’s too extended as I review it now.
“Computer scientists have been a part of some of the biggest innovations that have changed lives worldwide! This science can impact the world in every field. There aren’t enough skilled workers today to fill tech-related jobs, as even more specialized fields of IT or OT, such as the cybersecurity sector (topics: cryptography, password cracking, digital forensics and open-source intelligence gathering).
Cyber-attacks are the most significant challenges facing global industry today. As cyber threat continues to escalate, more perspectives are needed to combat the threat, and women bring a different perspective from men. As history has taught us, women built much of the foundation for this area.
Companies should build workforces that integrate diversity of all kinds – disciplines, genders, backgrounds, ethnicities – as this way ensures fresh perspectives, prompting innovation and creativity!
Despite what society’s cultural biases suggest, cybersecurity and computer science are definitely women’s work!”
SA: I love it, very insightful! Thank you so much for sharing.
S: I am glad that you find it good; first time i wrote something presenting my thought/opinion.
You’re very welcome!
Whether you just need a refresher or are completely new to computer science, Saylor Academy has multiple technology courses for you to choose from! Join Saylor Academy’s community of lifelong learners and enroll today. Let’s keep women in tech and happy #WomensHistoryMonth.