Cyber security internships, placements and graduate schemes can be a valuable way to bridge the gap between your university studies and a professional career. However, knowing where to start, and how to make the most of these opportunities, can be daunting for students and recent graduates.

In this panel discussion with members of our Youth Advisory Panel, we'll cover everything you need to know to get started, hearing from students and recent graduates with direct experience.

The session will start with an overview of internships, placements and graduate schemes, including what they entail, why you might choose to undertake them, and where they fit amongst other routes into cyber security.

We'll then look at top tips on finding opportunities and preparing strong applications, before exploring how to make the most of the scheme once you’ve been offered a place. We'll wrap up by discussing progression, return offers and next steps, including a Q&A section so you can put your questions to the panel.

Our speakers:

Monioluwa Egbo-Ozolua is a Computer Science with Cyber Security student at the University of East Anglia and one of three Academic Representatives on the UK Cyber Security Council's Youth Advisory Panel. Her experience spans internships at CGI and her School of Computing Sciences, plus a test-run of MOD's Cyber Marvel exercise. She also sits on the committee for her university's Big Sister Little Sister initiative.

Jana Jhaveri, ACSP, is a GRC Analyst and Primary Assessor at Assurix, where she leads Trusted MSP Trustmark assessments and runs customer success. She holds an MSc in Cyber Security and a BSc in Computer Science from Cardiff University and sits on the UK Cyber Security Council's Youth Advisory Panel. She also founded World Can Code and was named an everywoman 'One To Watch' in Technology.

Aura Brzezowska is an award-winning Cyber Security Analyst with experience in the financial and retail sectors. Chair of the UK Cyber Security Council’s Youth Advisory Panel, she advocates for greater youth representation and inclusion in cyber. Aura is a STEM ambassador and community volunteer committed to widening access to technology careers for underrepresented communities.

Harry Collins is an Academic Routes Representative on the UK Cyber Security Council’s Youth Advisory Panel. He holds degrees in Computer Science with English from Exeter and AI Ethics and Society from Cambridge, and aims to help students explore academic pathways into cyber security, including internships, societies, research and graduate roles.