Caden Bissland

The main reason I decided to go to NMU was because of its location. Marquette has a plethora of beautiful places to visit such as Presque Isle and Sugarloaf Mountain. Not only that, NMU has a welcoming culture alongside fantastic professors who really focus on their student's success.

I've always been interested in computers. Although my original plan was to become a pilot, my hobbies in computers expanded and now I've been invested in cyber security and information systems.

Throughout my time in this major, I've been adding tools to my home computer lab. Such tools relate to setting up virtual networks and performing network foot-printing, password cracking, vulnerability scanning, and penetration testing.

One of the most rewarding experiences I've had here has been earning and working towards various certifications. So far, I've gained certificates relating to Big Data for IBM and my Network+ from CompTIA. With this, I plan on earing the Security+ certification from CompTIA this November.

Being Northern, to me, means being able to adapt to challenging situations. The U.P. offers both physical and mental hills that are difficult to overcome, but not impossible. Once you've hiked those slopes, though, you'll realize all your hard work really does pay off.

I would tell someone who is considering NMU that it's the place to be, especially now. Even though I've enjoyed my experience here, there were some programs that weren't offered until now that I wish I was able to take part in. Nonetheless, students who are thinking of going here now have those opportunities alongside the wonderful culture that inhabits the campus.

Always get invested into some sort of club or campus activity. College may seem long but it goes by in a blink. It's also worth getting to connect to others and learn new skills through these activities. Consider looking into the Student Cybersecurity Association when you come up if you're interested in Cybersecurity!