A Mission-Driven Approach to Cybersecurity
When Azad decided to pursue graduate school, he was looking for a program that would strengthen his technical skills while preparing him to address real-world cybersecurity challenges. As a Marine Corps veteran and former Special Operations interpreter, Matthew has always believed that learning should serve a greater purpose.
He chose the University of San Diego’s M.S. in Cyber Security Engineering program because it offered the technical depth he was seeking within an environment centered on collaboration, professionalism, and practical application. For Matthew, the program represented an opportunity to build upon his experiences while developing the skills needed to make an impact in the cybersecurity field.
Developing an Engineering Mindset
Throughout the program, Azad developed a deeper understanding of cybersecurity engineering, network security, secure system design, and the critical mindset needed to approach complex security challenges. More importantly, he learned how to think like an engineer.
Rather than simply memorizing technical concepts, Azad gained the ability to analyze problems, understand the broader context, and apply his knowledge to real-world situations.
Learning Through Connection and Collaboration
One of the aspects Azad appreciated most about the program was the on-campus experience. Being in the classroom allowed him to engage directly with professors and classmates, ask questions, exchange ideas, and learn from individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
For Azad, this environment made the program feel more collaborative and provided opportunities to learn from others throughout the journey. The connections he built with faculty and classmates helped create a supportive learning experience while keeping him engaged and accountable throughout the program.
Connecting Technical Skills with Purpose
USD also reinforced something Azad carried with him from his military service: technical skills have the greatest impact when they are used to help others. The program provided him with structure, technical depth, and an environment that connected cybersecurity with leadership, responsibility, and real-world impact.
The lessons Azad gained through the program continue to influence how he approaches his work today.
Continuing a Mission of Service and Innovation
Looking ahead, Azad plans to continue building Cyber Ethos, where he focuses on combining artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and practical education to help organizations strengthen their security and operations.
He also hopes to continue supporting veterans, refugees, and nonprofit organizations by applying the technical knowledge and leadership skills he has developed throughout his career. Through this work, Azad remains committed to using cybersecurity as a tool to create meaningful impact and help others.
Advice for Future Cybersecurity Professionals
For anyone considering the M.S. in Cyber Security Engineering program, Azad’s advice is simple: be prepared to put in the work and take full advantage of everything the program has to offer. He encourages prospective students to ask questions, build relationships with professors and classmates, and focus on truly understanding the material rather than simply completing assignments.
For those seeking a program that provides technical depth, practical experience, and a learning environment designed to prepare students for real-world cybersecurity challenges, Azad believes USD offers an opportunity to grow both professionally and personally.
