Introduction to CWiCS India BOOST 0

As part of Cisco’s global commitment to empowering women in cybersecurity, I was thrilled to participate in the fourth edition of the Cisco Women in Cyber Security (CWiCS) India BOOST 4.0 program. This transformative initiative, guided by the pillars of Connect, Build, Attract, and Retain, aims to nurture talent in the cybersecurity domain. The BOOST Program offers engineering university students a unique 45-day experience that combines classroom training with self-paced learning activities. The curriculum covers essential topics such as network security, automation, and cloud technologies, providing a solid foundation for thriving in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.

The BOOST Program Journey

Registration: 7th May 2024 (06:00 PM) to 10th May 2024 (06:00 PM)

Program Duration: 45 days, commencing between June and mid-July 2024

Learning Format: Virtual classes and self-paced training materials

Certification: Upon program completion

My Experience with the Aptitude Exam

The aptitude exam was a critical step in the selection process for the BOOST Program. It was designed to assess our problem-solving abilities and knowledge across various domains. The exam consisted of two parts: two coding questions and forty multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Coding Questions:

The coding section focused on arrays and dynamic programming (DP). I was able to solve one of the coding questions, which challenged my understanding and application of algorithms in real-time problem-solving scenarios. This experience was particularly enriching as it tested my coding skills and my ability to think critically under pressure.

Multiple-Choice Questions:

The MCQ section was comprehensive, covering a wide range of topics including networking, aptitude, electronics, operating systems (OS), database management systems (DBMS), and verbal and non-verbal aptitude. I was pleased to find that I answered most of these questions correctly. The diversity of topics required a well-rounded knowledge base and the ability to recall and apply concepts across different areas of study.

Verdict: Shortlisted

After completing the aptitude exam, I was delighted to receive the verdict that I had been shortlisted for the CWiCS India BOOST 4.0 Program. This acknowledgment validated my efforts and gave me the confidence to embark on the 45-day learning journey.