Exabeam unveils Cybersecurity Scholarship Program

Exabeam has introduced the Exabeam Cybersecurity Scholarship Program, an initiative designed to support the next generation of professionals in pursuing an education and career in the security field. As the cyber landscape evolves and threats become more complex and difficult to detect, Exabeam is looking to invest in students who are passionate about addressing the cybersecurity challenges of the future and possess the curiosity to pursue innovative solutions.

“We are pleased to launch the Exabeam Cybersecurity Scholarship Program to recognise the exceptional and diverse talents of students who are exploring the possibilities of a career in cybersecurity,” said Nir Polak, CEO, Exabeam. “Reflecting on my own journey, the opportunities that promoted my passion and interest in this discipline ultimately led to the founding of Exabeam. To sustain progress in defending cyberthreats, address the ongoing cybersecurity labour shortage, and drive our industry into the future, we must all work to cultivate the next generation of talent.”

The program awards a total of $8,000 to three winning applicants. To participate, applicants must submit academic transcripts along with either a 600- to 1,000-word essay or a 5-minute video between March 1 and June 30, 2020 that answers one of three security-related questions: 

1. How would you go about making U.S. elections safer?

2. How would you protect user privacy and security on social media platforms?

3. Do you think your generation is more or less secure than your parents’ generation, and why? 

Potential winners will be selected based on a combination of originality and creativity and grade point average. Exabeam will publish winning essays and videos on its website and promote on social channels.

The Exabeam Cybersecurity Scholarship Program is one prong in a multi-faceted practise that Exabeam has created to focus on education, information sharing and diversity to develop more cybersecurity leaders. 

“One thing we have in abundance is knowhow—and we should be sharing it more widely,” said Polak. “While there is a great deal of knowledge sharing happening inside our industry, we also need to be reaching new audiences, educating and advocating, and that will require a broader culture of giving back.”

“To fight continuous threats and adversaries, cyber professionals need the support of a multidisciplinary approach,” continued Polak. “Building and sustaining a diverse team that offers many perspectives creates a holistic view of the problem, while also delivering a range of valuable problem-solving skills. In that way, diversity truly improves the overall outcomes of the team.”

Ultimately, Exabeam aims to set an example for the cyber industry and inspire others to be more inclusive and invest in equal opportunities, which can broadly help a sector that chronically struggles with a lack of progress toward diversity and enough talent overall.

The Exabeam Cybersecurity Scholarship Program is open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia who are 16 years of age or older at the time of application and who are currently enrolled (or have been accepted to enroll) in an accredited post-secondary institution of higher learning (e.g., college or university) with a minimum 3.0 grade point average.