After the birth of Jasmine Pittman’s first son, she sought a career that would provide a flexible schedule. Her interest in computer science, especially the cybersecurity aspect led her to North Carolina Central University (NCCU).
The Rocky Mount, N.C., native is one of the first graduates to obtain a degree in Information Technology with a concentration in cybersecurity from the School of Business.
Pittman began her studies at NCCU as a transfer student from Nash Community College after earning her associate’s degree. She managed to sustain a 4.0 GPA while also maintaining life’s demands as a wife and mom to her two sons Grayson and Harrison.
During the coronavirus pandemic, Pittman worked as a lab assistant in NCCU’s cybersecurity lab, which opened on Oct. 20, 2020, and she recognizes that experience with preparing her for a career in cybersecurity.
Pittman credits retiring School of Business professor Donna Grant, Ph.D., with being a motivating figure during her academic career.
“Dr. Grant has been an amazing professor, she looks out for students beyond providing instruction,” Pittman adds.
Pittman also served as the founder and president of the NCCU student chapter of Women in Cybersecurity, a non-profit organization dedicated to the recruitment, retention and advancement of women in the cybersecurity field.
Most recently, she served as an intern for Red Hat, a software company located in Raleigh. This role led to a job offer with the organization; upon graduation she will begin work as a data privacy compliance analyst.
Pittman encourages non-traditional students such as herself to never give up, stick through it until the end, be your authentic self and show up for every opportunity.
