What does the next generation of cybersecurity look like? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with Paola Mendiola — a college student with a clear vision for her future in technology. Paola didn’t just discover cybersecurity… she found a purpose in it. From learning tech in high school to pursuing her degree at Western Governors University, she’s focused on building a career in networking and cybersecurity — with the goal of one day returning to the classroom as a teacher. Her mission is simple: Give back. This is a fun, honest, and inspiring conversation about where cybersecurity is headed — and who’s helping shape it next.

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

01:05 Being Gen Z and finding her love for tech

03:02 Is it easier for Gen Z to go into cyber?

03:30 Learning technology in high school

03:56 Being a girl in technology

04:52 What inspires Paola to give back

07:08 Why she wants to teach technology

07:51 Role at Women in CyberJitsu

08:58 WGU journey and capstone project

11:00 Why networking matters in cybersecurity

14:00 Why she wants a master’s degree

17:48 Why she likes cybersecurity

18:23 Encouraging girls to go into tech

19:30 Advice for people considering technology

20:34 Why you should go to events and network

21:31 Advice for first-time conference attendees

23:00 Being a girl, a minority, and building connections