Thomas Peron

What is your studies background ?

After obtaining my Scientific A levels, I continued with a Computer Science degree at Université de Rennes 1, where I did a lot of math and programming. I continued with a first year of a master’s degree in System and Network Security, replaced today by the Computer Science, Cybersecurity track master’s degree of CyberSchool (Université de Rennes 1). I specialized in cybersecurity during my second year.

Why did you choose to specialise in cybersecurity ?

Initially, I was not particularly interested in systems and networks, but during my first year of master’s degree, I had several introductory courses in cybersecurity, which made me want to continue in this field.

What is your favorite aspect of your studies ?

I particularly appreciated the great diversity of topics covered in security, whether reverse, intrusion test, cryptography or mathematics. This allowed me to find my way towards missions/jobs that suited me.

Did you have extracurricular projects ?

As a student, I did a lot of “Root Me” and “Hack The Box”, online platforms that allow you to test your cybersecurity skills. These projects were not decisive for doing consulting, but are essential for doing intrusion tests.

Where did you complete your M2 internship ?

In March 2021, I completed my end-of-study internship at Naval Groupe on the Cherbourg site, as a cybersecurity Engineer. I was under the responsibility of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Several missions were entrusted to me: risk analysis on a common information system for collaborative work, several projects monitoring as well as forensics.

Was it easy to find an internship ?

The internship was more complicated to find than the job, insofar as companies expect interns to have a first experience. This is why extracurricular projects can help a lot in the search for an internship.

What is your current job ?

During the summer of 2021, I applied to Amossys, where I was recruited as a junior Consultant. Among the missions entrusted to me, I notably carried out a risk analysis for a client, I wrote an ISS policy and I accompanied an approval file. I was also trained in physical security. What I particularly appreciated in the job of Consultant was the relationship with the client. Conversely, I liked the administrative part of the job less.

I decided to leave Amossys in January 2022 to join Advens, a cybersecurity company with more than 350 employees across France (Lille, Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, Rennes and Nantes). On the day of the interview, I have two months of seniority as a junior Consultant. I participated in several missions: a risk analysis for an agricultural cooperative, business interviews and workshops with the client, the drafting of framing notes as well as the realization of a risk analysis for a large group. I particularly appreciate Advens because there is little turnover and a lot of experts, which is ideal for learning and training. In addition, we work with clients from a wide variety of business sectors, which is rewarding.

What are your career goals ?

In the next 5 years, I want to improve my skills in order to be independent with customers. Then, in 10 years, I would like to become CISO Assistant, then later become CISO for an end customer.

Do you have any advice for students ?

To be perseverant! There are many reports to submit and a large volume of work in the second year of Master’s degree, you have to hang on!

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Interview conducted in 2022.