For Tiana Turner, a summer cybersecurity camp in high school sparked an interest that would eventually become a career.
Today, the Augusta University graduate has launched her career in digital forensics, examining and analyzing mobile devices, computers and other digital media. It’s a position she’s dreamed about for years and one she felt ready to tackle after graduation thanks to the education, mentorship and hands-on experience she gained through Augusta University and the Georgia Cyber Center.
Finding a Passion for Cybersecurity
Tiana’s cybersecurity journey began long before she stepped foot on Augusta University’s campus.
As a junior in high school, she attended a summer camp at the Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School, where she was introduced to the world of cybersecurity for the first time.
“That experience opened my eyes to how cool cybersecurity was,” she said.
During the camp, students visited the Georgia Cyber Center and learned about Augusta University’s growing School of Computer and Cyber Sciences. The experience left a lasting impression.
After enrolling at AU and choosing cybersecurity as her major, Tiana quickly discovered a passion for protecting national security and fighting cybercrime.
Learning Inside the Georgia Cyber Center
Tiana earned her Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity in 2024 and completed her Master of Science in Information Security Management in 2026.
Throughout her time at the Georgia Cyber Center, she found herself surrounded by faculty who were deeply invested in student success.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the classes I took at the GCC,” she said. “Just being in the cyber center gives you a sense of being a part of something great. My professors were passionate about students’ success and building up the next generation of security professionals.”
Her growing interest in digital forensics led her to become a teaching assistant for Dr. Dorai during graduate school. In that role, she helped students better understand course material while encouraging them to explore the field of digital forensics themselves.
The experience strengthened her own technical knowledge while helping her develop communication and leadership skills that will continue to serve her throughout her career.
Gaining Real-World Experience Through Scholarship for Service
In Fall of 2024, Tiana was selected as a Scholarship for Service (SFS) Scholar, a competitive federal program designed to prepare cybersecurity professionals for careers in government service.
As part of the program, she completed an eight-week internship with a federal executive agency in Huntsville, Alabama.
During the internship, she worked on researching and updating cybersecurity education materials while contributing ideas and recommendations across multiple projects.
“I had an amazing experience during my internship,” she said. “I was able to work on various projects and contributeideas to improve the course materials.”
More importantly, the experience gave her a firsthand look at the work she would eventually pursue after graduation.
“My internship taught me how to think critically, problem solve and multitask,” she said. “My team members trusted me to use my skills and knowledge to complete assigned tasks and that alone made me more confident in my abilities.”
Mentorship That Made a Difference
Tiana credits much of her professional success to the support she received from faculty members throughout her time at Augusta University.
Her advisor, Dr. Nowatkowski, encouraged her to apply for federal internship opportunities and helped guide her through the Scholarship for Service program.
She also credits instructors Raymond GP and Dr. Dorai for helping shape her passion for digital forensics.
“They made me more interested in the topic and taught me well,” she said.
That combination of mentorship, classroom learning and practical experience helped prepare her for the next step in her career.
Starting a Career in Digital Forensics
After completing her internship, Tiana secured a post-graduate position with the same federal agency where she interned.
In her new role, she will work in digital forensics, examining and analyzing devices and digital evidence.
“I’ve always wanted to work in digital forensics,” she said. “I’m grateful to get a job within the field right out of college.”
She believes her internship experience helped her stand out during the hiring process.
“I do think having internship experience shows employers that you are active in your field and willing to learn more outside the classroom,” she said.
Looking Ahead
Five years from now, Tiana hopes to continue growing within her role while sharing her knowledge with the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
“I hope to still be within my position, but with more experience and wisdom so that I may be able to pass knowledge on to other students interested in digital forensics,” she said.
It’s a fitting goal for someone whose own career began because others took the time to introduce her to cybersecurity.
From attending a summer camp as a high school student to launching a career in digital forensics, Tiana’s journey reflects the power of education, mentorship and hands-on experience. Her story serves as a reminder that a single opportunity can shape an entire future.
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