Student Spotlight: Nevaeh Groucher
Meet Nevaeh Groucher, a recent Informatics and Cybersecurity grad who is currently pursuing her master’s in Cybersecurity at UAlbany. With a passion for technology, problem-solving, and digital security, Nevaeh is focused on building the skills to protect and strengthen the systems that shape our world. Beyond the classroom, she’s actively involved in the campus community through her work with the University Apartments, where she hones her leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Nevaeh’s commitment to both her academic and professional growth reflects her drive to make a meaningful impact in the cybersecurity field.
What’s the coolest project, internship, or campus opportunity you’ve taken on lately and what did you do there?
This past spring, I interned with the Bethlehem Central School District, working closely with IT and cybersecurity professionals. It was an amazing hands-on opportunity where I got to bridge technology and education. One of my main roles was developing tech-related lesson plans and classroom activities for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. I also helped assemble educational robots that students could interact with, which was a really fun and rewarding part of the experience, seeing how excited the kids were to learn through technology. Overall, it gave me valuable insight into both the technical and educational sides of IT.
What’s one thing you learned from that experience that you know will help you in your future career?
One major thing I learned from that experience is how important it is to communicate complex technology in a simple, engaging way. Whether I was creating lesson plans or helping students use robots, I had to break down technical concepts, so they were understandable and fun. The skill of translating tech for different audiences is something I know will be incredibly valuable in any future career in IT or cybersecurity, where explaining systems or solutions clearly to clients or team members is just as important as understanding the technology itself.
While you were there, did you see any interesting ways tech (or AI) was used in your field?
One interesting thing I saw was how technology was being integrated into everyday learning, even at the elementary level. Some classrooms were using AI-powered learning platforms that adapted to each student’s skill level, helping teachers personalize instruction. I also saw how robotics was being used not just for coding lessons, but to build problem-solving and collaboration skills. It really opened my eyes to how AI and tech aren’t just behind-the-scenes tools, they’re actively shaping how students learn and how teachers teach.
How has CEHC helped you discover or land opportunities like this?
CEHC has been incredibly helpful in connecting me with real-world opportunities. I actually found out about the internship through Erin Couture, who does an amazing job consistently sharing opportunities with students and encouraging us to get involved. Her support, along with CEHC’s focus on hands-on learning and professional development, really helped me take that next step and gain experience in the field.
What’s been your favorite part about the culture or community at CEHC?
My favorite part about the culture at CEHC has definitely been the job fairs. They’re not just great for networking they also create a real sense of community. You get to meet professionals in the field, learn about different career paths, and connect with other students who share similar goals. It’s clear that CEHC really wants to set us up for success beyond the classroom.
If another student wanted to score an experience like yours, what’s your #1 piece of advice?
My #1 piece of advice would be: don’t be afraid to take initiative and stay connected. Keep an eye on emails, talk to your professors, and definitely take advantage of resources like the ones Erin Couture shares. A lot of great opportunities are out there, you just must be proactive about finding and applying for them. Even if something feels a little outside your comfort zone, go for it, you’ll learn so much.
What’s next for you? Any big goals, projects, or dream opportunities on the horizon?
Right now, I’m pursuing my master’s degree in Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity, which has been both challenging and rewarding. Outside of academics, I’m still very involved on campus, I work in Residential Life for University Apartments as an Assistant Apartment Coordinator, with a specialty in occupancy. That role has been incredibly beneficial because it’s helped me strengthen my communication, organization, and leadership skills, things that are crucial in any professional setting, especially in cybersecurity where attention to detail and teamwork are key.
As for what’s next, I’m keeping an open mind. There are so many exciting paths within digital forensics and cybersecurity, from threat analysis to incident response to policy and compliance, and I’m eager to explore them. I’m focused on gaining as much experience as I can now so I’m ready to pursue whatever direction aligns with my passions and strengths.