The Computer Science and Cybersecurity Club at Shadow Ridge High School is advised by Llyod Mann. The club is both a social and educational space for students who are interested in computer science and cybersecurity. Members learn about computer systems, programming, and cyber threats such as hacking. Students also participate in different types of competitions, work hands-on with technology, and help each other learn and develop new skills. The club meets every Thursday after school in room 327. It was started as a place for students to connect with others who share a passion for technology and share their knowledge. Through online programs and competitions, members are able to gain skills that will help prepare them for real-life cybersecurity challenges and help them get an early start towards pursuing a career in this field.
Members often participate in Cyber Patriot and other CTF competitions where they defend virtual systems, patch vulnerabilities, and solve real world cybersecurity problems.These hands-on experiences allow students to apply what they have learned to real life scenarios.
“The competitions in this club have helped me prepare for real-life situations because they involve challenges that professionals face in actual cybersecurity jobs,” Connor Dixon, sophomore states. “They simulate different scenarios that someone in this field might experience.”
Unlike other tech-focused clubs, the Computer Science and Cybersecurity Club dives deeper into the more technical aspects. Members work on more advanced projects and compete in CTF challenges, and learn skills beyond classroom levels. The club offers a unique social environment for students of all levels to connect and learn from each other.
“We’re more into the weeds and other tech clubs,” Mann states. “A lot of tech clubs are just surface level. We really get into it here. Like I said, they’re doing college level work. They’re doing CTFs, which are college level. So there’s a lot of opportunities, too. In a class with only freshmen or only sophomores, you are able to come to the club, and meet everyone, people with more advanced knowledge, people who know nothing. It’s just a place to come and geek out.”
The Computer Science and Cybersecurity Club isn’t just about competitions and finding vulnerabilities, it’s also about helping students understand how to stay safe online and be responsible with technology. Students learn how to protect their personal information, recognize threats, and strengthen their security both inside and outside of the club. Students believe the skills they are learning in the club can help them make a difference in not only themselves but others around them.
“I think the club is great for anyone who’s interested in learning about cybersecurity,” Ben Guerroro, senior states. “Learning how to defend yourself online could definitely be a benefit of this club. Gaining this knowledge and passing it down to friends, parents, or anyone who isn’t so informed in cybersecurity could keep people safe online.”
For students who love technology or are interested in learning more, the Computer Science and Cybersecurity Club is the perfect place for students to connect, learn, and prepare for future technological careers.
