By Lizzy Barrett
I participate in the CyberPatriot program at my school. CyberPatriot is the National Youth Cyber Education Program created by the Air Force Association to help prepare children work toward future careers in cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is extremely important in this digital age, so the program puts children in an environment similar to those working in a cybersecurity job. In fact, some colleges and universities offer scholarships just by being a former member of CyberPatriot.
We participate in a lot of fun activities and competitions. According to the CyberPatriot website, “CyberPatriot’s National Youth Cyber Defense Competition challenges teams of high school and middle school students to find and fix cybersecurity vulnerabilities in virtual operating systems.” The competitions normally take place online, but the top teams advance to Washington D.C. We also solve cyber related decrypting/encrypting puzzles, like enigma or pigpen. This is extremely important because people store sensitive information on their computers, and hackers may have a harder time accessing the information using encryption.
One thing I really enjoy about being in CyberPatriot is competing in the competitions. I find it as a good way to learn about the different operating systems, like Linux Distro Ubuntu or Windows Server 2019. It has also taught me more about the operating system I use, because at least I now know how to protect my computer. I also like the opportunity to meet new people and gain lifelong friends. I feel more confident because I know that I have friends who have similar interests.
In order to become a member of the Cyber Innovations Program, students have to meet certain requirements. For example, students have to be in good academic and behavioral standing. Also, one of the most important rules in this CyberPatriot club is to be a team member. Teamwork is extremely important because people will need to work together in order to solve some of the difficult challenges. Another important aspect in CyberPatriot is perseverance. Not everything is going to be easy in that club since you might be learning a new operating system.
My coach for this Cyber Innovations Program is Mrs. Melissa Matias. Mrs. Matias has a passion for Computer Science. Much of her interest was developed throughout her career in the military. According to Mrs. Matias, “My future plans for Cyber is to develop a program that all students within the [Vail school] district will be able to participate in whether it’s being part of the CyberPatriots competition or wanted to elect this as a HS course.” She started the Cyber Innovations Program at our school in hopes of exposing children to cybersecurity because most students aren’t aware of possible cybersecurity and networking jobs. Mrs. Matias further explains, “The market is completely missed because the students lack exposure. What better than to provide them the tools and resources in a safe and controlled environment. In this day and age, our generations are growing in the digital era, but not being shown opportunities that come with it. I want this program to be accessible whether the student works virtually or in person.”
From my experience, CyberPatriot is a fun club that people with an interest in computers or cybersecurity should join. I’ve had a lot of fun playing around with computers and meeting new friends. I hope this club becomes accessible to everyone because in this digital age, we need more online protection than ever before.
Lizzy Barrett is a Vail USD student and freelance reporter contributing to Bear Essential News for Kids® and their News for Kids segments on KVOA TV. She’s also appeared on KNST’s “Money Matters” and KVOI’s “Liberty Watch” radio shows.
