Students received hands-on labs using the Certified Ethical Hacker iLabs program. The standards-based content reinforced GenCyber’s six cybersecurity concepts: confidentiality, integrity, availability, think like an adversary, defense in depth, and simplicity.

“It’s that time of year when professors of computer science and information systems come together to inspire the next generation of highly talented cyber warriors,” said Dr. Tamirat Abegaz, associate professor of computer science. and information systems at the UNG. “We take this opportunity to share feedback on the performance of peer teaching.”

The mix of hands-on and interactive learning opportunities appealed to Ja’ise Green, an aspiring student at Kennesaw Mountain High School.

“I originally thought camp was going to be set up in amphitheaters and be a pretty formal setting where we learn everything in the first half before going into more camp style later in the week,” Green said.

Joshua Acklen, a rising senior from the Innovation Academy Home School, has family members who work in cybersecurity. The student from Roswell, Georgia found the experience “rewarding” and enjoyed being able to see what family members go through on a daily basis.

“The pre-camp activities helped us accelerate learning the more technical side of cybersecurity,” Acklen said.

Elizabeth Iarygin, a rising high school student from Kennesaw Mountain High School, enjoyed a taste of college life interacting with faculty.

“The academy definitely changed my view of cybersecurity,” she said. “I had no idea how vast the field is and how a variety of skills and interests can be applied to it. Overall, I’m really glad I went there.”