From Innovation Labs to Linux Labs

Monday was a day full of foundational learning and hands-on experiences. Interns began the morning with structured group work time, reviewing the missions of their assigned nonprofits and outlining initial cybersecurity questions. Each team started formulating the investigative approach they’ll take into their first nonprofit meeting, determining what information they still need and what risks they want to evaluate more closely.

Later in the morning, interns traveled to the HSI Innovation Lab where they toured real-world cybersecurity operations. The interns had the opportunity to explore modern defense technology, threat detection systems, and career paths that merge computer science with public good. It was a chance to see the real impact of what cybersecurity professionals do every day and a tangible look at the kind of work interns will stimulate throughout the week.

In the afternoon, interns participated in multiple lectures. Beth Cerrone led a session on the CIA Triad, Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability, which are the foundational principles of digital security. Meanwhile, Professor Phuong Nguyen of Georgetown University guided students through Cybersecurity Consulting, helping interns understand how to assess risk and build solutions tailored to the nonprofit sector. Together, these lectures helped interns connect theory to application.

Later, interns joined their first Linux Lab, led by Beth Cerrone, where they were introduced to open-source operating systems and the essential tools cybersecurity professionals use daily. Additionally, David Balenson delivered a dynamic session on Security Principles, explaining how professionals develop secure systems and protocols to protect organizations. After dinner, interns had the opportunity to explore the Georgetown campus, decompress, and build connections with their peers.