At the Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center, we’re proud to support Augusta University students as they build the skills, confidence and real-world experience needed to succeed in today’s cybersecurity workforce in Georgia. Through hands-on cybersecurity coursework, internships and student assistant roles inside the Georgia Cyber Center, students gain practical training that leads directly to meaningful careers across industry, government and financial services.
In this blog series, we’re spotlighting Augusta University cybersecurity students and graduates who trained at the Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center, sharing their career journeys, lessons learned and where their paths have taken them after graduation.
From the Georgia Cyber Center to Deutsche Bank: Kaushini Pathirana’s Cybersecurity Career Journey
At the Georgia Cyber Center, we’re proud to see Augusta University students turn cybersecurity education and hands-on training into successful careers. One such success story is Kaushini Pathirana, an Augusta University graduate whose experience at the GCITC helped launch her career in IT audit and cyber risk at a global financial institution.
Building a Strong Cybersecurity Foundation at Augusta University
Kaushini earned her Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity with a minor in Business Administration from Augusta University in May 2024. Her coursework at the Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center provided both technical knowledge and real-world context.
Reflecting on her experience, Kaushini shared:
“The classes were incredible. I learned a lot and the professors were very helpful and always gave guidance when asked.”
With industry-aligned cybersecurity courses and supportive faculty, Kaushini developed the skills employers are looking for in today’s cyber workforce.
Hands-On Cybersecurity Experience in the Georgia Cyber Center SOC
Beyond the classroom, Kaushini gained professional experience as a Student Assistant and GRC Analyst in the Security Operations Center (SOC) at the Georgia Cyber Center. This hands-on cybersecurity internship experience exposed her to real organizational environments, governance risk and compliance work and professional communication.
“It taught me what the office would be like and what is expected of me. It also taught me how to give speeches and presentations without being nervous.”
This practical training helped bridge the gap between academic learning and full-time employment in cybersecurity and IT risk.
Launching a Career in IT Audit and Cyber Risk at Deutsche Bank
Today, Kaushini works as an IT Infrastructure Audit Analyst at Deutsche Bank, applying the cybersecurity and risk management skills she built at Augusta University and the Georgia Cyber Center.
“I am happy and fulfilled. I felt prepared based on my experience.”
She credits the mentorship and professional development she received in the SOC for helping her succeed in job interviews and transition confidently into the workforce.
“Everyone at the office in the SOC prepared me for the interview by doing mock interviews and talking my nerves down. I will forever be grateful.”
Looking Ahead to a Future in Cyber Risk Management
With a strong start to her cybersecurity career, Kaushini has clear goals for the future.
“In five years, I see myself in a risk management kind of role, something my audit role will provide expertise for.”
Her journey is a powerful example of how Augusta University students and the Georgia Cyber Innovation & Training Center are strengthening Georgia’s cybersecurity workforce through education, internships and real-world experience.
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