On September 26, 2024, the National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law program hosted a “Careers in Cybersecurity Law” event, bringing together students who want to explore the dynamic intersection of law and technology. The panel of distinguished speakers included Leah Schloss, senior advisor at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency; Sunita Patel, Senior Advisor, Product Security, Micron; Kimberly Rowley, Senior Policy Advisor, Office of Cyberspace and Digital Policy, Department of State. Professor of Practice Jonathan Cederbaum moderated the panel.
Each speaker outlined their own journey into cybersecurity law. They highlighted the importance of foundational experience in both law and technology, and how these factors intertwine to shape a career. Speakers discussed key moments that sparked interest in cybersecurity and highlighted the critical role of the legal profession in navigating the complexities of digital security.
A key takeaway from the panel discussion was the need to stay up to date with technological advances and the evolving landscape of the technology industry. Speakers emphasized the importance of a deep understanding of these trends to influence cybersecurity law. This theme resonated throughout the event and reinforced the idea that continuous learning is essential in such a fast-paced field. Sunita Patel emphasized the importance of having a solid understanding of the fundamentals of computer science and technology, arguing that this knowledge is essential to addressing legal issues in cybersecurity.
When asked about their recommendations for aspiring professionals, the panelists said to focus on relevant coursework, pursue internships that provide hands-on experience, and build a comprehensive understanding of the field. suggested constantly checking online literature.