Holly Takos, a Bachelor of Criminology graduate from Flinders University in 2021, is currently a Cyber Defence Analytics Researcher at the Commonwealth Bank. Her journey through criminology at Flinders has been transformative, providing her with the skills and experiences needed to excel in the dynamic field of cybersecurity. Here, she shares her Flinders experience and how it has shaped her career.
Why Flinders University?
Growing up in the community around Flinders University, I always admired how the institution actively participated and gave back. Choosing Flinders for my Bachelor of Criminology was a no-brainer. I knew this university, with its strong community spirit and dedication to making a difference, was the perfect place for me to start my journey in criminology.
Memorable Moments and Inspiring Lecturers
Reflecting on my time at Flinders, it's tough to pick just one favourite memory. However, my involvement with the Flinders University Criminology Association stands out. This experience was special because it allowed me to connect with fellow students and enhance our university experience, especially during the challenging COVID-19 times. From trivia nights to the annual ball, and hosting career nights with industry professionals, we built a supportive community focused on our shared goal of creating a safer and more just society.
Among the many inspiring lecturers, Dr. R.V. Gundar was particularly influential. His passion for cybercrime was contagious and fueled my interest in how technology impacts society. Dr. Gundar's practical lessons and emphasis on a curious and critical mindset have been invaluable in my current role in cybersecurity.
Why Criminology?
My passion for serving the community and making a positive impact on society motivated me to pursue criminology. I wanted to understand the root causes of crime, especially in the digital age. Criminology provides the tools to analyse criminal behaviour and develop effective prevention strategies. The evolving nature of crime, particularly cybercrime, fascinates me, and studying criminology at Flinders equipped me with the critical thinking skills needed to navigate this complex landscape.
Advice for Current Undergraduates
For those starting their criminology journey, here are three key messages to help you get ahead in your career:
Build Your Network: Connect with your peers and find mentors in your field. Attend industry events, join professional organisations, and don't hesitate to reach out for advice. Networking can open doors to various career opportunities.
Stay Curious: Always question and dig deeper. Challenge policies, explore biases, and think outside the box. A curious mindset will drive you to create more effective and just solutions within the criminal justice system.
Follow Your Interests: Pursue what excites you. Being passionate about your studies will make your university experience enjoyable and lead you to a fulfilling career.
Applying My Degree in the Real World
The skills I acquired during my Bachelor of Criminology at Flinders are fundamental to my role as a cyber defence analytics researcher at the Commonwealth Bank. Critical thinking, problem-solving, technical writing, and research analysis are all part of my daily tasks. Most importantly, the curiosity I developed during my studies keeps me motivated to learn and adapt in the ever-changing field of cybersecurity. By staying curious and innovative, we can stay ahead of cybercriminals and protect our digital world.
Proud to Be a Flinders Alumna
Being a Flinders University alumna is a badge of honour. The knowledge and experiences I gained have been instrumental in shaping my career. I am grateful for the support, friendships, and mentorships I received during my time at Flinders. The connections and memories I made are a testament to the vibrant and nurturing community that Flinders University fosters.
Choosing to study criminology at Flinders University was one of the best decisions I ever made. The university's commitment to community, the inspiring lecturers, and the enriching experiences have all contributed to my growth, both personally and professionally. If you're passionate about making a difference and eager to explore the fascinating world of criminology, Flinders University is the place to be!
