Empowering Futures: Fírebamí Babalola’s Journey in Cybersecurity at St. John’s University
The Quest for Opportunity
When Fírebamí Babalola arrived at St. John’s University in Queens, New York, he had ambitions that extended beyond merely earning a degree. He was on the lookout for opportunities that would merge theoretical knowledge with practical experience, especially in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity.
“I was captivated by the strength of the Cyber Security Systems degree program,” Fírebamí noted. His decision was further reinforced by the university’s prime location in New York, which is a hub for some of the world’s leading tech companies and cybersecurity teams. “Being in Queens means you’re just a train ride away from countless internship opportunities and networking events,” he emphasized.
The Roots of His Success
Fírebamí acknowledges his father’s influence in urging him to consider the vast possibilities that New York had to offer. “My dad really encouraged me to look into what being in this area could mean for my career,” he explained. Living in Queens, surrounded by a dynamic tech environment, allowed him to blend academics with real-world experience seamlessly.
During his time at St. John’s, he engaged with various student organizations, including the African Students Association and the Association for Computing Machinery. These platforms provided him a sense of belonging and were instrumental in expanding his professional network. “Both organizations anchored me in my culture and sharpened my skills in cybersecurity,” Fírebamí shared.
Practical Learning Through Campus Jobs
His work experience further enriched his college journey. Serving at the Office of Information Technology (IT) Service Center, he honed his troubleshooting and interpersonal skills, which are crucial in cybersecurity. “It’s the blend of everything—class knowledge, internships, and campus roles—that crafted me into a well-rounded professional,” he discussed.
Behind every opportunity were faculty members who actively supported him. Fírebamí specifically mentioned Dr. Erald Troja, a key professor in the Computer Science, Mathematics, and Science department, who connected him with his internship at the New Jersey Courts. “Dr. Troja truly opened doors for me, providing invaluable mentorship and guidance,” he reflected.
Gaining Experience Through Internships
Fírebamí’s internship experiences have been pivotal in shaping his understanding of cybersecurity. At New Relic, he delved into security engineering with a focus on system protections. This experience allowed him to evaluate how security compliance affects dynamic organizations. “That was my first time truly understanding how compliance shapes security policies,” he recounted.
His time at Verizon further bridged classroom concepts to practical applications, particularly in security automation. “It taught me how to translate academic learnings into actionable tools,” he articulated, underlining the importance of hands-on learning.
Through his involvement with the Cyber Policy Leadership Institute, Fírebamí gained insights into the intersection of cybersecurity, governance, and policy. “It wasn’t just about fixing systems; it was about understanding the broader implications of cybersecurity decisions,” he noted, emphasizing the field’s multifaceted nature.
Academic Foundation and Future Aspirations
“Classes like Intro to Digital Forensics, Secure Software Development, and Data Structures and Algorithms laid the groundwork for my career,” Fírebamí explained. He believes that academic knowledge combined with real-world internship experiences has prepared him for various pathways in the field of cybersecurity.
As he approaches graduation, Fírebamí considers the vast prospects ahead. “Cybersecurity is incredibly broad, and I know being in New York keeps my options open,” he stated, showing eagerness to explore diverse roles within the industry.
Reflecting on his journey, he is not only focused on his career but also on the impact he can make for others. “More than anything, I want to protect people and pave new paths for others from my community,” he remarked. His time at St. John’s has equipped him with the skills and knowledge to step confidently into a future where he feels a sense of belonging and purpose.
