Summer Opportunities

  • Home /
  • Summer Opportunities

DECREE VI Scholars Summer Program

Welcome to the DECREE VI Scholars Summer Program! This program is designed to enhance your skills and knowledge in cybersecurity, offering a variety of engaging educational activities and opportunities for professional development. The activities that are part of the summer program are detailed below:

Info

All activities need to start by June 2026 and completed by September 2026.

Prepare for DoD-Approved Certifications

Enhance your credentials by preparing and taking a Department of Defense-approved cybersecurity certification exams:

  • Security + (SY0-701): Build foundational security skills and knowledge.
  • PenTest + (PT0-002): Focus on penetration testing and offensive security measures.

Please follow the following process to obtain your Comptia exam voucher

1. Complete the pre-exam survey

  • Timing: 8–10 days before your CompTIA certification examination date
  • Complete the Google Form:
    • Submitting the survey unlocks the voucher request. If form is correct, you will receive your voucher code by e-mail 2–4 days after submission.
    • If you do not complete the survey in time, you will not receive the voucher

2. Schedule the exam & upload proof

  • Schedule your certification exam by starting at CompTIA Sign-In page. Detailed step-by-step instructions can be found in the Scheduling Your CompTIA Exam Help article.
  • After booking, take a screenshot of the confirmation page (showing date, time, and exam name) and upload it via the “Edit response” link included in the email you receive after completing the survey in Step 1.

3. Report your results

  • Within 48 hours of finishing the exam, upload your PDF score report (or a clear image of the printout) via the “Edit response” link in the email you received after completing the survey in Steps 1 and 2.

Attend Local Cybersecurity Conferences

Scholars may attend local cybersecurity conferences as part of their summer professional development. This is an opportunity to engage with the cybersecurity community, learn about current trends, and expand professional networks.

Info

We can support up to $300 per scholar in ONE conference registration fees. Travel, lodging, and other expenses are not covered.

Process to request support

1. Identify a conference

  • Select a relevant local cybersecurity conference taking place between June and September (before the regular classes are resume).
  • Ensure the event does not require travel or overnight stay.

2. Submit a request for approval

  • Provide the conference name, date, location, and registration cost.
  • Include a short justification (2–3 sentences) explaining how the event supports your professional development.

3. Confirmation and registration

  • Wait for approval before registering.
  • After approval, complete your registration and keep proof of payment.

4. Submit proof and reflection

  • Upload proof of registration/payment as requested.
  • Share your experience through your biweekly LinkedIn reflection, highlighting key takeaways and insights.

Biweekly Reflections

If you are joining any of these summer oportunities, you are required to submit a biweekly Linkedin post in our LinkedIn group reflecting on their summer activities.