STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

MD FAHIM FAISAL
MSc Applicant for September intake 2024, Industrial Networks and Cybersecurity

The cyber-attack on Bangladesh Bank on February 4, 2016, was my first introduction to the term of cyber
security during my time at college. My fascination waned over time because I was from a small town in
the western part of Bangladesh that lacked the necessary resources to study this subject. Another incident
occurred in my first year of university when hackers stole up to $3 million from cash ATMs at three
Bangladeshi private banks. This incident again sparked my interest in cyber security. I then started
learning the basics from the internet and the university's academic seminars. However, my curiosity was
boosted when I was in my third year at university, taking a course on computer communications and
networks. This course captivated my attention and wanted me to study this area more. As an undergrad in
information and communications engineering, I was behind on security studies. However, I started
studying network, server, and cloud computing to solidify my basic understanding before graduating to
prepare myself for higher studies in cyber security.
I earned my Secondary School Certificate in the science group after completing my primary schooling,
since I have always found science-related topics to be interesting. I continued my higher secondary
studies with the science group for the same reason after finishing high school. I subsequently pursued a
bachelor’s degree in information and communications Engineering (ICE) at East West University, a
prestigious private university in Bangladesh. Like I indicated before, my focus shifted to cyber security
and related areas during my first year at university. However, the subjects of information and
communications were more central to my undergraduate coursework. Most of the communication-related
electives I took in undergrad focused on topics like optical fiber communication, satellite communication
and wireless networks. In addition, the research project I was required to accomplish for my
undergraduate degree was likewise on a communication-related topic. In this research project, we wanted
to optimize the connection parameters to achieve the best signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at the receiving end.
Since my interest had changed, I got started on CCNA training before completing my undergraduate
studies. I was able to learn about enterprise production networks and network security throughout this
training, as well as have practical experience configuring and troubleshooting Cisco networks and an
understanding of how routing and switching technologies function in real-world settings. Upon finishing
this course, I enrolled in an online Linux System Administration course at Oracle University. In addition,
I study Hack the Box's basic material and put it into practice through real-world exercises in areas like
web request analysis, network traffic analysis, and operating system fundamentals. After that, I continued
to Oracle University and earned three certifications in Oracle Cloud Infrastructure: two at the
foundational level and one at the associate level.
Aspiring to be a cyber-security engineer, I believe I should enhance my proficiency in executing diverse
duties for protecting networks. This involves creating, building, and executing extremely secure network
systems. These technologies aid organizations in securing their networks against cyberattacks and
hacking threats. This prerequisite is unavailable in the Bangladeshi environment where I am currently
living. Therefore, I am inclined to pursue a master's degree in Ireland due to the country's esteemed
reputation for its exceptional education system, which is routinely ranked among the world's best
institutions. Universities provide a diverse selection of programs including MSc degrees, characterized by
rigorous teaching and research standards. Furthermore, A Master of Science degree from an Irish
university is well esteemed and acknowledged on a global scale. This has the potential to significantly
augment one's employment opportunities, both domestically and internationally. Ireland serves as a
prominent center for research and innovation, notable for its substantial allocation of resources towards
research infrastructure and facilities. As an MSc student, students will be given access to advanced labs,
research centers, and prospects for engaging in collaborative endeavors with esteemed scholars and
industry collaborators. Ireland is renowned for its hospitable and all-encompassing atmosphere,
characterized by a thriving community of foreign students. Students will have the opportunity to engage
with and establish connections with students from other cultural backgrounds, enhancing their academic
journey and broadening their global outlook. Pursuing a Master of Science degree in Ireland offers the
potential to augment one's professional opportunities, given the nation's robust economic conditions and
its status as a hub for many multinational organizations, technological firms, and entrepreneurial ventures.
I chose South East Technological University's because of their specialized programs with relevant
subjects of study. SETU offers an Industrial Networks and Cybersecurity Master of Science program that
provides industry-specific knowledge and skills. An enhanced curriculum that covers network and
cybersecurity topics can prepare students for cybersecurity careers. SETU may also partner with leading
cybersecurity companies. Collaborations can lead to internships, guest lectures, practical projects, and
post-graduation jobs. These relationships can boost our education and careers. SETU's industry-
credentialed academics conduct cybersecurity research, creating a great learning environment and
mentorship opportunities. Assess the program’s curriculum to ensure it covers current cybersecurity
trends, technologies, and best practices. After graduation, industry-specific skills and certifications may
improve our cybersecurity job prospects. SETU may host networking events, seminars, and workshops
for cybersecurity experts, alumni, and prospective employers. Building a strong professional network
during an MSc can lead to cybersecurity job opportunities, mentorship, and collaboration. Consider
SETU's location near cybersecurity hubs, tech companies, and governments. Living in a cybersecurity-
friendly area may increase internships, job opportunities, and networking opportunities, enhancing my
education and career.
From the perspective of Bangladesh, the data security infrastructure is much worse compared to other
countries worldwide. Due to this, Bangladesh often experiences cyberattacks in many government
sectors. The country's inability to effectively defend itself was due to a shortage of skilled cyber security
engineers. Currently, cyber security is considered a sophisticated subject compared to others. Not many
universities in our country can provide this course due to inadequate lab facilities. Students are unable to
pursue this subject due to the exorbitant tuition prices. In Bangladesh, many students interested in
cybersecurity get knowledge from YouTube and various online learning platforms. These are suitable for
understanding fundamental concepts but insufficient for experts in cybersecurity topics. Some
organizations provide certification programs and training; however, they come at an expensive cost. I
wish to make a change in the ecology of our country. Following my completion of my master's degree,
my goal is to teach and mentor others in this area so that they can ensure the safety of our nation's digital
infrastructure. In addition, I would like to pursue my PhD so that I can research advanced topics in cyber
security issues, develop better defenses against cyberattacks, and boost the safety of our private and
business information.
Upon completing my master's degree, I plan to start a career in education, focusing on teaching, training,
and conducting research in the field of cybersecurity. I have always aspired to join the prestigious
scientific community, dedicated to addressing global challenges and advancing academic knowledge to
inspire future scientific leaders. I believe this program will assist me in connecting my present academic
goals with my long-term academic goals. I want to emphasize my strong commitment to enhancing my
technical skills and my genuine interest in research. I hope you consider me a suitable candidate for the
MSc in Industrial Networks and Cybersecurity program at your university.