Student Stories

What’s your background and why did you decide to pursue Diploma in Network Defence and Forensic Countermeasures at PSB Academy?  

After earning my Higher Nitec certificate, I enrolled in the Certificate in Infocomm Technology (e-learning) at PSB Academy, which I fully financed myself. Once I completed it, I secured a full-time role as a desktop engineer at NCS, a Singtel subsidiary, providing IT support to MOE schools. I decided to further my education in cybersecurity, and PSB Academy’s cybersecurity diploma stood out for being more affordable than other private institutions. They also offered two EC-Council certificates that weren’t available elsewhere. A friend in the IT industry also recommended PSB Academy, highlighting how comprehensive the modules were. 

Do you foresee any challenges while pursuing your cybersecurity diploma? 

I have mild dyslexia, which makes it a bit harder to keep up with my peers. It takes me longer to absorb information, but I’m willing to work twice as hard to succeed. Learning disabilities can be challenging, but I’m determined to push through. 

Do you believe having a diploma is important, and how do you think it will help you in the future?

Absolutely, having a diploma is important, especially since many cyber security jobs require practical assessments during the hiring process. It’s essential to have both the knowledge and the qualification to succeed. 

How has your experience with PSB Academy been so far, especially in terms of support and resources? 

My experience at PSB Academy has been truly enjoyable. I’ve had the opportunity to learn many new things while also refreshing my knowledge from my time at ITE. I appreciate how all resources are readily available online whenever I need them, and the lecturers have been incredibly helpful in clarifying my doubts, even with a class size of 170 students. 

Are there any specific modules in the cybersecurity diploma that you find particularly engaging or challenging? 

Mathematics has been the most challenging for me. I’ve always struggled with it, but the complex topics and new concepts have really pushed me to think critically and sharpen my problem-solving skills. Despite these challenges, I’ve learned to enjoy the process of tackling tough problems, and I’m making a consistent effort to understand and solve them to the best of my ability. 

How have you managed your dyslexia while studying? 

To manage my dyslexia, I’ve learned that breaking down my reading materials into smaller chunks really helps. I also use color-coded notes to keep everything clear and organized, which has made studying more manageable and less overwhelming. Over time, I’ve gained a better understanding of my abilities and the strategies I need to overcome challenges and succeed in my studies. 

How do you think the skills from this cybersecurity diploma will apply to your future job roles? 

This cybersecurity diploma has equipped me with both technical and critical thinking skills, which are essential for solving complex problems. These skills will be directly applicable in my future job roles, where I’ll need to adapt to fast-changing environments and collaborate effectively with teams. 

Do you have any advice for students considering this Diploma in Network Defence and Forensic Countermeasures at PSB Academy? 

For anyone considering this cybersecurity diploma, I’d say don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. The resources are readily available, and the lecturers are always willing to assist. It’s also important to stay organized and keep track of assignments early—this really helps in managing the workload and staying on top of things to avoid any last minute stress.