Student Story: Ollie's Cyber Security Journey

I started with a Fast Track to Computing course, which prepared me for my HNC in Cyber Security. After achieving an A, I’m now progressing through the HND level, gaining hands-on experience and growing my passion for cybersecurity.

From Coding to Cyber Security

My love for computing started early. At 12, I began coding in JavaScript, Java, and Python, creating small projects just for fun. By 14, I moved on to TypeScript and C++ and registered my own company to offer contract software development, something I’m still doing today.

Over time, cybersecurity became a natural progression of my interest in building and solving problems. I’ve earned certifications from Amazon Web Services and Fortinet, which expanded my understanding of real-world technologies. One highlight was discovering a high-severity vulnerability, CVE-2020-15732, in Bitdefender’s antivirus software, a vulnerability rated as high severity by NIST.

What Makes D&A Stand Out?

D&A College provides a supportive and practical environment where I’ve been able to thrive. One of my most memorable experiences has been leading the team that won the Dundee Cyber 9/12 Strategy Challenge. Competing against students ranging from HNC to PhD level and coming out on top was incredible.

More than just winning, this experience helped me, and my teammates connect with influential cybersecurity professionals, gain valuable insights, and build an industry network.

Passions Beyond Tech

When I was younger, I dreamed of becoming a pilot and flying commercially, either as a flight instructor or airline pilot.  While the costs of training made me reconsider it as a full-time career, I have never lost my passion for flying.  At 16 years old I started flying and at 18 years old I earned my Sailplane Pilot License, and I am now training for my National Private Pilot License to fly powered aircraft.

Flying isn’t just a hobby for me, I am also working towards aircraft maintenance certifications, building skills to inspect and maintain aircraft.  This allows me to combine my technical mindset and love for aviation in a meaningful way.

Advice for Future Students

If you are considering D&A, my advice is simple, go for it!

The lecturers here are incredibly supportive, and the courses are focused on practical, real-world skills. You’ll leave not just with a qualification but with the experience to jump straight into your career.

What’s Next?

In semester 2, I will be taking on a new challenge, shadowing computing lecturers here at D&A.  This opportunity will give me hands-on experience in teaching and mentoring, something that I am really excited about exploring.  Looking further ahead, I plan to continue my studies as I go directly into year three at University to gain an Honours Degree in Cyber Security while exploring opportunities to lecture here at D&A.

The skills, confidence, and practical experience I’ve gained so far have set me up for success in the cybersecurity field, and I’m excited for what’s to come.

If you’re passionate about cyber security and want to learn in an environment that prepares you for the real world, D&A is the place to be.

 

Ready to take your first steps into the exciting world of Cyber Security?

Find out more about our computing courses here: https://dundeeandangus.ac.uk/subject-areas/computing-creative-media/