What does a great college experience look like for a student studying technology today?
In this episode of Mr. Fred’s Tech Talks, I sit down with one of my students, Gavan Quimby, a senior Information Technology major with a cybersecurity option at Penn State Scranton.
But Gavan isn’t just focused on academics.
During his time in college he also served as Student Government Association President, worked as a peer mentor, participated in research projects, and built connections across campus that helped shape his future career path.
Our conversation explores what it really means to study cybersecurity in college today, how leadership experiences shape students beyond the classroom, and why curiosity and initiative matter more than feeling “ready.”
For parents, educators, and students considering careers in technology, Gavan’s story offers an encouraging look at how college can become a launching pad for both professional growth and personal confidence.
What We Discuss in This Episode
In this conversation we talk about:
• Gavan’s transition from computer science to Information Technology
• What cybersecurity students actually study in college
• Balancing academics with leadership roles like Student Government
• How getting involved early on campus opens unexpected opportunities
• Misconceptions about IT and cybersecurity careers
• How artificial intelligence is shaping the future of cybersecurity
• Why asking questions and seeking help can accelerate learning
• Advice for high school students curious about technology
A Student Perspective on Cybersecurity
One of the biggest misconceptions about cybersecurity is that it’s only for people who have been coding since childhood.
Gavan shared a different perspective.
Technology careers are filled with people from many different backgrounds. Athletes, artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs all bring valuable perspectives to the field.
Cybersecurity in particular continues to evolve as new technologies emerge.
Artificial intelligence is already influencing how security professionals defend systems and detect threats. Rather than replacing cybersecurity jobs, AI is becoming another tool that professionals must learn how to use responsibly.
Students entering the field today will need curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to keep learning as technology changes.
The Importance of Getting Involved in College
One of the most powerful lessons from this conversation is the value of getting involved early in college.
Beyond coursework, Gavan participated in student government, mentoring programs, clubs, and campus initiatives.
These experiences helped him:
• Build friendships and professional connections
• Develop leadership and communication skills
• Discover new career interests
• Gain confidence in his abilities
College offers far more than academic knowledge. It provides a unique environment where students can experiment with new roles and explore opportunities that shape their future careers.
Advice for High School Students Interested in Technology
Gavan’s advice to students considering technology careers was simple:
Ask questions. Try things. Don’t assume you aren’t good enough.
Many students hesitate to pursue technology because they believe they are behind others or lack the necessary skills.
But college is designed to help students learn, experiment, and grow.
Everyone starts somewhere.
The most important step is simply being willing to explore and stay curious.
Mr. Fred’s Tech Challenge
Here’s your challenge for this episode.
Imagine you were responsible for improving cybersecurity at your school.
What is one simple idea that could help students stay safer online?
Maybe it’s:
• A short awareness campaign about phishing
• A presentation about strong passwords
• Encouraging students to enable two-factor authentication
• Starting a student digital safety club
Now take it one step further.
Write down three steps you would take to make that idea happen.
Leadership doesn’t require having all the answers.
Sometimes it starts with simply taking the first step.
Final Thoughts
Conversations like this remind me why teaching is such a rewarding profession.
Watching students grow in confidence, take on leadership roles, and begin shaping their futures is one of the greatest privileges of working in education.
Technology careers continue to evolve, but the qualities that help people succeed remain constant:
Curiosity. Initiative. Persistence.
If students are willing to ask questions and explore opportunities, they can create paths they never imagined.
Explore More
If you enjoyed this episode, you might also like exploring:
Learn to code and explore technology:
https://courses.getmecoding.com
Visit the GetMeCoding blog for more ideas:
https://www.getmecoding.com
