Graduate Alumni Focus | Anup Kumar Navuru, M.S.’25

I am a cybersecurity and information security professional with a strong academic foundation in technology and risk management. I earned my master’s degree in information technology and a certificate in cybersecurity, completing the programs between August 2023 and May 2025. My professional interests include cybersecurity operations, risk management, compliance and emerging security technologies, and I am actively building experience in these areas through academic projects, internships and industry engagement.

I chose Hood College because of its strong reputation for academic rigor, small class sizes and emphasis on hands-on learning. The information technology and cybersecurity programs stood out to me due to their practical curriculum, alignment with industry needs and focus on real-world security challenges such as risk management, compliance and cyber defense. The opportunity to learn directly from experienced faculty was a key factor in my decision.

My experience at Hood College played a significant role in shaping my career direction. The program strengthened my technical knowledge while also emphasizing analytical thinking, documentation and communication skills that are critical in cybersecurity roles. Coursework, projects and collaborative learning helped me understand how security principles are applied in real organizational environments, preparing me for professional responsibilities in the field.

What I enjoyed most was the supportive academic environment and the close interaction with faculty and peers. The collaborative culture encouraged open discussion, problem-solving and knowledge sharing. I also valued the practical nature of the coursework, which consistently connected theory with real-world cybersecurity scenarios.

One of my favorite experiences was working on network cybersecurity related projects that simulated real industry challenges. These projects required teamwork, critical thinking and the application of multiple security concepts, making the learning process both challenging and rewarding. They helped build confidence in my technical and professional abilities.

Receiving the TechFrederick STEM Student Award is a tremendous honor. It represents recognition from the local technology and innovation community and validates the hard work I put into my academic and professional development. The award is especially meaningful because it connects my educational journey with real-world industry appreciation.

My education at Hood College provided the foundation that made this recognition possible. The rigorous curriculum, emphasis on applied learning and encouragement to engage with the broader tech community helped me develop both technical expertise and professional confidence. Hood College prepared me to think critically, communicate effectively and demonstrate commitment to excellence in STEM.

I would encourage students to take full advantage of hands-on learning opportunities, ask questions and actively engage with faculty and peers. Building strong fundamentals is important, but so is gaining practical experience through projects, internships and networking. Staying curious, adaptable and committed to continuous learning is key to long-term success in STEM fields.

Inspired by Anup’s story? Ready to #GOFURTHER in your career? Learn more about Hood College’s graduate programs, including information technology.