Rhodes Sikireta
2nd-year student, Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences in Networks and Cybersecurity with a minor in Marketing
He has been interested in computers from a young age, says Rhodes Sikireta who is studying a Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences in Networks and Cybersecurity with a minor in Marketing.
“I chose to study computing because there are great job opportunities in this field and I’ve always had an affinity for working with computers, whether it was learning rudimentary networking for creating servers for games like Minecraft, or my general curiosity in data and how computers store and use it. I chose networks and cybersecurity because I found building and designing network topologies interesting and recognised the necessity of learning networks given the increasing internet connectivity.”
Rhodes says his whole family had been to AUT and he wanted to continue the family tradition. It’s a decision he hasn’t regretted.
“I went to AUT because I believe that it’s the right university to equip me with the tools to enter the workforce and navigate through life. What I’ve enjoyed the most about studying here is meeting new people. Initially, I was worried that I wouldn’t make friends, but there really is a group of people for anyone at AUT. Whether you meet them in your classes, in the library, in clubs or around the campus – there's someone for everyone. I also enjoy the flexibility of class times and the off-campus learning, and we’re taught resources and programs that are used in the industry.”
Tailoring his studies
Another thing Rhodes has particularly enjoyed about his studies is having the flexibility to include subjects from outside of computing as part of his degree. He is making the most of this opportunity and is including a minor in marketing, as well as elective courses in Spanish and creative thinking.
“I chose to include marketing in my degree due to its broad application in every industry. An understanding of markets is a vital skill to have in any industry you’re in, and I recognised that even in a networks or cybersecurity position it would benefit me. Past its broad application, it’s also a subject that interests me as it directly connects to how we as humans express ourselves through our purchasing decisions and what we choose to identify ourselves with.”
Because he had been wanting to learn Spanish ever since high school, he also jumped at the opportunity to take three elective courses in Spanish.
“Increased job prospects aside, learning a second language enables me to connect to hundreds of millions of people I wouldn’t have been able to communicate with otherwise. It allows me to immerse myself in a different culture and understand others coming from similar yet foreign contexts. I’ve really enjoyed the atmosphere and learning culture the Spanish teachers create. It encourages the lifelong skill of learning a language and becoming immersed in a foreign culture.”
Advice for other students
Now in the second year of his studies, Rhodes has some great advice for other students.
“My advice for other students is that life is long yet simultaneously short. Learn to work hard and have fun in the process. Don’t wait until ‘things are better’ to do what you love – whatever position you’re in now, start to incorporate what you love into your daily routine. Start appreciating that you only have one shot at this and you miss all the shots you don’t take.”
He wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to other students.
“I’d recommend studying at AUT for the simple reason that there’s no downside. I’ve only met great people, had great lecturers and had great experiences. The culture at AUT emphasises respecting and understanding oneself and others, which is vital to navigating life.”
