Lana’s Passion Earns Her Technology Scholarship

Class of 2021 graduate, Lana Komaromi was recently awarded the Young Technologists Scholarship through Murdoch University. The scholarship valued at $15,000 was open to students commencing a tech-based undergraduate degree.

Lana commenced a Bachelor of IT at Murdoch this year. She’s also doing a double major in computer science and cyber security.

We asked Lana about her course and what receiving this scholarship means to her.

Tell us about your scholarship and what this means for you?

The scholarship will connect me with a diverse network of like-minded people and provide a range of unique opportunities to aid my studies and inspire my passion for technology. Becoming a member of the Westpac 100 Scholars Network will allow me to develop my learning in technology and programming and life-long skills, including leadership. Part of my scholarship will include a program where I will spend five days in Asia, an international learning experience where I can improve my leadership skills. This opportunity will also allow me to access paid internships and a range of inspiring mentors who can further my passion and curiosity.

Have you always been interested in technology?

Since a very young age, I have always been intrigued by my dad’s work. He is a network manager. I would take sneak peeks at the code running down his screen, and he would let me play around on his computer sometimes (of course, after some begging). My curiosity led me to pursue my interest in technology and complete coding courses online and teach myself about programming.

 What do you love about your course?

I have already fallen in love with my course and the Murdoch campus. I have met wonderful people in my classes and labs with the same interest in technology and a fantastic group of tutors and lecturers. I am doing four units in my first semester, and so far, my cyber security unit has been my most enjoyable unit. I am learning how to run commands on a Linux computer using VM software and learning about its security, including hacking itself.

Who inspires you each day and why?

My dad has always been an inspiration in my passion for technology. But the true inspiration in my life each day would have to be my sister. Unlike most typical siblings, I have been very fortunate to be very close with my sister. Together, we have shared so many experiences, made many memories, and been at each other’s side through almost everything. She has always been my biggest support, an incredible listener, and a truly inspiring role model. As her younger sister, I have grown up looking up to her and her selflessness and determination in all her endeavours. These have become qualities that I truly value and strive to reciprocate daily. 

What advice would you give to our current students?

If I were to give any advice to the current students, there is just one thing I think is the most important to take on board. Do what you love. You probably have heard this or something similar 100 times, but take it from me, that is what truly matters. Sure, there are many other aspects of learning, but the best way to learn is through interest, curiosity, passion, or simply fascination. And if you don’t know what your passion might be, think about what you find fun doing? I always think, why do something if you can’t find joy in it? 

What are your future plans after you complete your degree?

In completing my degree, my doors will be open to so many opportunities in the IT world. I have chosen to specialise in cyber security, a field of relatively high demand that is integral to our modern world today. I hope to pursue this career as a software engineer or perhaps a security analyst.

Is there any particular person or course you studied at Santa Maria that has paved the way for where you are now?

There have been so many teachers in my journey at school who have all impacted me. I can definitely say that if it were not for them, I would not be the person I am today. It is difficult to think of just one, but if I really did have to say, it would have to be Mr Wray. He was such tremendous support throughout my entire school journey. He was always the teacher who challenged my thinking and encouraged me to think outside the box. In every visit or lesson in class, I would never leave without having a puzzle or the most uncanny thought. It was Mr Wray who has always kept my curious mind thinking and for him to have been a part of my school life is something I will forever be grateful for. 

What is your favourite thing to do to wind down?

I love playing the piano and getting stuck into a really good book in my spare time. I always love spending time with my family and catching up with my friends to watch movies or tv shows or play games. When I am winding down after a long day before I go to sleep, my favourite thing is to put my headphones in and listen to some music.

Thank you, Lana, for sharing with us. We wish you all the best for your future.