From Learner to Leader - Arnavv Singh's Story

Arnavv Singh’s journey into cyber security began with a spark of curiosity in Year 12. While researching potential career paths, cyber security “immediately caught my attention" due to his strong interest in new tech. Currently studying a double degree in Bachelor of Cyber Security and Bachelor of Criminology at Deakin University, Arnavv is about to enter his final year. He hopes to eventually transition into a digital forensics or cyber investigation role.

A Starting Point

Arnavv Singh’s journey into cyber security began with a spark of curiosity in Year 12. While researching potential career paths, cyber security “immediately caught my attention" due to his strong interest in new tech. He was drawn not only to the technical challenges but also to the fast-paced nature of the industry and the broad spectrum of career opportunities it offered. Arnavv also saw a unique alignment with his long-standing ambition to pursue investigative work, mentioning that “a career in cyber security offers a pathway to combine that ambition with my passion for technology.”

Currently studying a double degree in Bachelor of Cyber Security and Bachelor of Criminology at Deakin University, Arnavv is about to enter his final year. He hopes to eventually transition into a digital forensics or cyber investigation role, a move he believes would allow him to “combine [his] interest in investigative work with my passion for emerging technologies, enabling me to contribute to tackling crime in a modern, digital context.”

The Continuous Learning Journey

Support from peers has also been an important factor in his journey. With this guidance, Arnavv has learned to carve his own path and remains focused on his goals. Along the way, he has relied on a combination of self-motivation, and utilising available resources. Reflecting on academic challenges, he notes, “During my programming units, given my limited programming experience outside of university, I found it difficult to fully grasp concepts and develop code without support. However, using online resources and guidance from teaching staff and peers, I was able to overcome these hurdles and achieve high marks.”

Beyond formal studies, Arnavv has sought practical experience to expand his knowledge and skillset. He has participated in multiple Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, applying theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, and has served as a committee member of the Deakin University Cybersecurity Association (DUCA). At DUCA, he has worked alongside “passionate and motivated individuals to design and deliver high quality workshops,” covering topics ranging from compliance frameworks and industry certifications to emerging legislation. “These opportunities have significantly impacted my trajectory in my professional journey through the knowledge I have acquired to the amazing people I have met and worked with,” he says.

Arnavv has also pursued industry certifications to strengthen his expertise, including EC-Council’s Certified Secure Computer User (CSCU) and Microsoft’s SC-900 and AZ-900. He notes, “My main motivation to acquire the Microsoft certificates was their industry value and the tailored knowledge they offered of the Microsoft solutions. I can directly apply the knowledge I have gained through them in my current role.”

Cyber Security in Practise

As a Cyber Security Analyst at Downer, Arnavv’s focuses on conducting third-party vendor security assessments for external applications the business intends to onboard. Alongside this, his team plays a key role in planning and delivering cyber awareness training across the organisation, aiming to uplift overall cyber hygiene.

“We develop a cyber awareness strategy based on insights generated through awareness reporting,” Arnavv explains, highlighting the importance of data-driven decision-making in strengthening security culture. Looking ahead, he anticipates expanding his responsibilities to include working on ASD Essential 8 and ISO 27001 audits as he continues to grow into the role.

Arnavv expresses that his role requires a high level of communication and teamwork, both of which are critical to its success. Arnavv credits his involvement with DUCA as instrumental in developing his research and presentation skills, as well as deepening his understanding of essential frameworks such as the ASD Essential 8. In addition, his experience as a Deakin Engagement and Access (DEAP) Mentor, where he facilitated workshops for high school students, helped him build strong presentation, communication, and teamwork skills.

“I was able to heavily utilise these experiences during the interview process, and they have also helped me stand out in the role itself,” he reflects.

Where Cyber Security Is Headed

Speaking about the future of cyber security, Arnavv highlights the increasing importance of the human element. “With automation of security processes and AI integration, understanding human behaviour is more crucial than ever,” he explains. He emphasises communication and teamwork as key skills that will remain irreplaceable, even in an increasingly automated industry.

Arnavv’s journey is a testament to curiosity, perseverance, and the value of hands-on experience. Through a combination of academic learning, extracurricular engagement, and industry certification, he has positioned himself to thrive in an evolving and challenging cyber security landscape.

Connect with Arnavv Singh

You can connect with Arnavv on Linkedin