Duke Cybersecurity Student Sejal Nayak will intern for Amazon as a Security Engineer
Why did you apply for the ME in Cybersecurity? What career goals did you come to Duke with?
As a fifteen-year-old, I dreamt of coming to the U.S. not just for the bright lights and big cities but for the chance to innovate, push boundaries, and be part of something bigger. Years later, when I decided to leave behind a stable job to pursue my master’s, many people told me how tough it would be to break into the U.S. tech market, especially in cybersecurity. But I have always believed that success isn’t just about talent – it’s about taking the right steps at the right time, being proactive, and seizing opportunities. This mindset has been central to my journey. The Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity program at Duke became that opportunity, equipping me with the skills, connections, and mindset to turn challenges into stepping stones toward my goal: becoming a Chief Information Security Officer. I chose Duke for its industry-driven education, where adjunct professors aren’t just educators but leaders actively shaping the cybersecurity landscape, working with top industry companies. Learning from them has been transformative, bridging the gap between theory and real-world practice.
How have you found your internship?
Securing an internship at Amazon was a milestone in my journey, and it all started with a simple application through LinkedIn. However, what truly made a difference was the networking opportunities at Duke. Engaging with industry professionals at Duke events, connecting with peers, and learning from adjunct professors who are active in the field gave me valuable insights and helped me refine my approach. These experiences not only strengthened my application but also prepared me to confidently navigate the interview process. A game-changer in this journey was the Cloud Security course taught by Professor David Faraone. The course provided me with critical insights and hands-on skills that directly contributed to my success in securing this opportunity.
How did the Cyber courses help you prepare for the role?
Duke’s cybersecurity courses played a crucial role in preparing me for my role at Amazon. Cloud Security (CYBERSEC 590) with Professor David Faraone not only provided hands-on experience with securing cloud environments but also made us well-versed in industry-recognized certifications. Professor Faraone’s approach ensured that we were fully prepared to pursue these certifications, and I could clear the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification during his class. The Cyberbit labs in this course further enhanced my practical skills, providing real-world attack simulations that strengthened my expertise in cloud security, incident response, and threat detection. This hands-on training gave me a competitive edge, ensuring my skills were directly relevant to the role.
Additionally, the Security Incident & Threat Detection course with Prof Arturo Ehuan sharpened my ability to assess vulnerabilities, respond to security threats, and implement proactive defense strategies. The Management in High Tech Industries course was equally impactful, helping me prepare for the behavioural portion of my interviews. It taught me how to articulate my experiences, demonstrate leadership, and effectively communicate complex cybersecurity challenges, which are key factors in landing my internship. Duke didn’t just teach me concepts—it equipped me to excel in both my career’s technical and professional aspects.
Can you name 2-3 most important skills you gained during the program?
Duke’s MCAP program has provided mentorship beyond academics, guiding me both professionally and personally. The Friday seminar series has opened doors to invaluable networking with top industry professionals. Every experience here has reinforced my belief that I made the right choice. If fifteen-year-old Sejal could see me now, she would be more than proud because I’m not just dreaming anymore. I’m one step closer to making that dream a reality.