At CyberFirst Wales, we are proud to support students who are passionate about shaping the future of cyber security. The CyberFirst Bursary offers financial support, exclusive training, and industry placements that help students build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the cyber sector. In this interview, one Welsh student shares how the bursary has transformed their university experience and opened doors to incredible opportunities across the UK.
When I first applied for the CyberFirst Bursary, I had no idea how much it would transform my university experience. Now, as I enter my fourth and final year on the scheme, I can honestly say it has been nothing short of amazing.
Learning the Ropes at the CyberFirst Academy
One of the highlights came during my very first summer when I attended the CyberFirst Academy. It was an intensive introduction to everything cyber, from forensics and networking to cryptography and open source intelligence. Those weeks did not just build my technical skills; they gave me lifelong friends, unforgettable experiences, and a strong start in the industry.
That foundation helped me secure my first placement working in BT’s Security Operations Centre, where I was trusted with real projects and could see the impact of my work straight away.
Meeting Leaders and Building Networks
Another standout moment was attending the NCSC CyberUK Conference in Belfast. It was incredible to meet industry professionals, hear from leaders such as Jeremy Fleming, the outgoing Director of GCHQ, and be part of conversations shaping the future of cyber security in the UK.
“I have travelled across the country, had placements with large tech companies and been financially supported whilst focusing on my degree.”
Training, Placements and Real World Experience
The bursary opens doors to placements and training from over 100 industry and public sector partners, from the Met Police to Microsoft. My placement at BT’s managed service SOC was a steep but rewarding learning curve. Within six weeks, I delivered a sales pitch to potential customers, and by the end of the 10 week placement, I was contributing to the team’s day to day operations.
Through the Academy, I also had access to the Immersive Labs platform, which strengthened my technical knowledge and supported my degree in Computer Science. Many of my fellow bursary students have gone on to placements with Amazon, The Alan Turing Institute, The Bank of England, and other leading organisations.
Applying for the CyberFirst Bursary
I found the application process enjoyable and accessible. The written questions let me highlight my experience, and the online assessment felt more like a challenge than a test, exploring puzzles and cryptography problems at my own pace.
My advice to anyone applying is to try as many challenge areas as you can. It is not about how much you know; it is about how you think, explore, and problem solve. The interview process was friendly and supportive, and the CyberFirst team guided me through every stage.
A Message to Other Welsh Students
Coming from a small state school, I initially felt a little disadvantaged compared to some of my university peers. But the CyberFirst Bursary helped me bridge and even surpass that gap.
If you are interested in cyber and want a chance to learn, grow, and connect with some of the UK’s leading organisations, go for it. The opportunities are there, and you just have to take the first step.
Interested in following in these footsteps?
Find out more and apply for the CyberFirst Bursary
