Yaohong Situ
Welcome! I’m passionate about exploring the realms of cloud computing and cybersecurity. My journey began with a curiosity about how technology shapes our world. From those early explorations, I’ve immersed myself in understanding the intricate balance between leveraging cloud technologies for innovation and ensuring robust cybersecurity measures. Join me as I share my experiences and insights gained along the way, aiming to inspire and inform others on this exciting journey.
From Hospitality to Clouds: Navigating My Path in IT
Chapter 1 -- A Journey Through Business Hospitality
Studying Business Hospitality at Nova Scotia Community College was filled with memorable lessons and hands-on experiences. From enthusiastic wine tastings to managing hotel operations, I gained resilience and leadership skills. NSCC shaped my passion for hospitality, preparing me for a career with lasting memories and invaluable insights.
Chapter 2 -- Serving Up Thai Hospitality
After graduating from Nova Scotia Community College with a diploma in Business Hospitality, I joined Thai Ivory Cuisine, a bustling restaurant known for its authentic Thai cuisine and warm hospitality. As a server, I applied my education to create memorable dining experiences, mastering Thai specialties and fostering genuine guest interactions. This role deepened my appreciation for teamwork and problem-solving, reinforcing my passion for delivering exceptional service rooted in Thai hospitality.
Chapter 3 -- Embracing New Horizons at Freeman's Little New York
Transitioning from Thai cuisine to Italian-inspired dishes at Freeman’s Little New York, I embraced the artistry of pasta-making and crafting artisanal pizzas. Under seasoned chefs, I immersed myself in mastering meticulous techniques and navigating a fast-paced kitchen environment. This experience reinforced my skills in precision, teamwork, and delivering memorable dining experiences, shaping my professional journey with resilience and a commitment to excellence.
Chapter 4 -- The Awakening
Inspired by conversations with tech-savvy peers and motivated by a desire to understand digital landscapes, I embarked on courses in web development and the Google Cybersecurity Certificate program. Through these studies, I navigated challenges, found connections to my culinary background, and developed a passion for innovation and cybersecurity in the digital realm.
Chapter 5 -- Pursuing Higher Education
I explored web development and cybersecurity on platforms like Udemy, sparking a passion for IT. This led me to apply for Dalhousie University’s computer science program, driven by a desire to formalize my expertise in programming, algorithms, and technology’s theoretical foundations.
Chapter 6 -- From University to Practical Experience
During my time at Dalhousie University studying computer science, each new concept and skill intensified my passion for IT. A chance encounter with a friend at the university’s IT helpdesk exposed me to hardware troubleshooting, sparking my interest. Inspired, I dismantled and attempted to repair a PC at home, deepening my understanding despite the challenges. Motivated by this experience, I paused my university studies to enroll in a cybersecurity bootcamp, eager to accelerate my entry into the IT industry.
Chapter 7 -- Cybersecurity Bootcamp Journey
At Flatiron School’s cybersecurity engineering program, I immersed myself in a comprehensive curriculum covering network security, systems security, cryptography, and Python programming over four intensive months. The highlight was the Cybersecurity Capstone project, where I designed secure networks and tackled real-world scenarios. Concurrently, I pursued and successfully obtained my CCNA certification, solidifying my passion for cybersecurity and preparing me for complex challenges in the field.
Chapter 8 -- Continuing Education and Professional Growth
After Flatiron School, I chose flexibility and enrolled in Western Governors University to study cloud computing at my own pace. Alongside, I earned certifications like Security+ and AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, currently focusing on AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate. Applying this knowledge, I’m actively developing my website to reinforce learning and showcase skills in cloud computing and web development. Each milestone at WGU strengthens my foundation in cloud technology, preparing me for success in IT’s dynamic landscape.
