Afrah Ahmes,

'26 chemical engineering - traditional track

When did you do your Research?

Summer 2024

Where was your Research?

Gebbie Group at University of Wisconsin, Madison

What is the focus of your Research?

Investigating the effects of Ion Correlations in the Electrochemical reduction of Nitrate to Ammonia by managing the electrolyte microenvironment.

What was the best part of your Research OR What was the biggest learning moment of your Research ?

The best part was being able to interact with and learn from my mentors and gain insight in graduate student life.

What advice do you have for students who are interested in getting involved in research or an internship?

Never be afraid to reach out to others. Having connections is a very important thing regardless of what you plan to pursue.

Are you a member of any clubs/campus organizations?

UMBC AIChE secretary, ENCH 215 Teaching Fellow, CBEE Student Ambassador

What are your goals after graduation?

Earn a PhD in Chemical Engineering

Learn more about Afrah Ahmes: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/afrahahmed0318

Shashane Anderson

‘26 chemical engineering - biotechnology & bioengineering track

When did you do your Research?

Fall 2023 - still doing it

Where was your Research?

My research is at the ATOMS Lab with Dr. Josephson at UMBC.

What is the focus of your Research?

My current focus is on formalizing proofs regarding chemical equilibrium using the Lean Theorem Prover.

What are you looking forward to the most about your Research? 

I am eager to become more proficient with the computational aspects of engineering and math. Although it can be challenging, it’s an incredibly valuable skill.

What was the best part of your Research OR What was the biggest learning moment of your Research?

As a beginner, it’s been fascinating to observe my growth. I’ve gradually developed the ability to apply the knowledge I’ve gained from my courses and research in more practical ways such as proving the mathematical concepts I learn in class. This has significantly strengthened my skills. For this reason, I can be more appreciative of the value of the learning process and the insight it brings.

What advice do you have for students who are interested in getting involved in research or an internship?

Never underestimate your ability to learn and apply new concepts.

What are your goals after graduation?

I will be pursuing a job in the pharmaceutical industry.

Transdisciplinarity in Audio Deepfake Discernment with Expert-in-the-Loop AI Models

Prof. Vandana Janeja, UMBC

12-1 pm EDT, Friday, 18 October 2024, online 

Name:
Amey Ashtekar

Pronouns:
He/Him

Semester of Internship:
Summer 2024

Major:
Cybersecurity

Current Class Level:
Master's Student

This semester I completed a(n)...
Internship

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name):
Walmart Global Tech

Location of the Organization (City, State):
Bentonville, Arkansas

Title of position:
Cybersecurity Intern - Threat and Detection Engineering

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
In the summer of 2024, I interned at Walmart Global Tech in the Infosec Department, working closely with the Threat Hunting and Detection Engineering team in the Security Operations Center (SOC). My role centered on developing detection rules and logic, as well as automating processes to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of security analysts in responding to cyber threats. I contributed to the creation and optimization of detection mechanisms, controls, and playbooks, which improved incident response workflows. Additionally, I integrated automated alert functions that helped streamline resolution processes. Collaborating with my team, I supported critical incident management and detection strategies, strengthening Walmart's overall security posture.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I began applying on LinkedIn during the summer of 2023, interviewed around August, and secured my offer by October 2023.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?
LinkedIn or other social media

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
What I’ve enjoyed most about my time at Walmart Global Tech is the sheer scale and complexity of working at the world’s largest company. The InfoSec team operates with cutting-edge technology and advanced security mechanisms, providing a challenging and rewarding environment. Above all, it’s the people—my mentor, teammates, and leadership—that have made the experience truly exceptional. They are not only technically sharp but also incredibly supportive and inspiring, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented atmosphere.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I believe my work has made an impact by enhancing Walmart's threat detection and response capabilities. By developing detection rules, streamlining incident response processes, and implementing automation, I helped improve overall efficiency and security posture. Additionally, collaborating with my team on critical incidents and refining security controls has contributed to stronger defense mechanisms, ensuring better protection of sensitive data and continuity of operations. Through these efforts, I’ve been able to support the organization in mitigating risks and responding to evolving cyber threats more effectively.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
My advice to students seeking an internship or similar experience would be to start early and apply as soon as a job is posted. Networking is key—connect with professionals in your field and seek guidance. Focus on quality over quantity in your applications by tailoring each one to the specific role. Be persistent in your search and don't be discouraged by rejections—use them as opportunities to improve. Always read the job description carefully, highlight relevant skills and experiences, and prepare thoroughly for interviews to effectively showcase your value. Lastly, stay confident throughout the process!

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.
What I valued most about my position was seeing the direct impact of my work on reducing the mean time to resolve security events. The Career Center was instrumental in my internship journey, organizing networking events and job fairs, guiding me through the application process, and preparing me for interviews, which boosted my confidence and contributed to my success.