We love catching up with our alumni, to talk about life after BCIT, their careers, and what tips they have for prospective and current students. In this Q&A, meet Computer Information Technology (CIT) grad Mariah Mirzayan, who graduated with a Diploma in 2022.
What led you to BCIT and CIT specifically?
After graduating from UBC, I had a four-month internship in a research lab, where I had the opportunity to do data analysis. It required some very low-level programming (R-studio), but I found it appealing. At the time, I wasn’t happy with the role I had in health care, so I decided to follow my interest and apply to CIT.
I chose CIT because it seemed like the most encompassing program at the time, a good foot-in-the-door type of program. I was able to acquire a lot of knowledge, from programming to networking to cyber security, where I have a job today.
What was a highlight during the program?
One thing I struggled with before joining the CIT program was not being able to make good connections with instructors and peers. While studying at CIT, it was easier to form relationships because class sizes are small, and instructors often knew your name.
How have you benefited from the program?
I think I benefitted the most from the co-op program. After co-op I was able to land a tier 1 help desk support analyst position, and then later use that experience to move into a cybersecurity role.
What kind of advice would you give prospective students?
Really focus on creating good relationships with your peers and instructors. Having a group of friends/classmates that you can turn to when you need help is critical. They can provide a different perspective and help you see what you are missing.
What kind of work are you doing now, and what makes it exciting?
I am a Cybersecurity Analyst 1 at BCNET, a non-profit organization that provides cybersecurity and other services to higher education institutions in British Columbia. I currently do a lot of work in a System Information and Event Management (SIEM) system where I view alerts from various higher education and research institutions. Following my review of the alerts, I try to correlate events to determine if there is anything nefarious or malicious happening in a given environment.
Tips for students landing their first CIT-related job?
Be picky but also not too picky when applying to jobs. Don’t apply to random jobs, hoping you will get a bite. Do apply to jobs you have an interest in and think you can use to build up your professional development. Don’t be picky about remote work, or give up on an opportunity just because you have to commute.
Career plans for the future? Where do you see yourself in five years?
I am hoping to be still in cyber security, but moved into something more advanced. I really enjoy the investigative aspect of cybersecurity; the days when I have to do triage and analysis just seem not to have enough hours. It’s fun to play detective in the virtual world!