By Amanda Maslin, 20 August, 2025
Ever wondered what it’s really like to study and work in cyber security? We caught up with Hazel Hogan, a fifth-year Bachelor of IT/Bachelor of Laws (Honours) student at QUT, who is also working as an Associate in Information Security Governance, Risk, and Compliance. On top of her studies and work, Hazel has played an active role in the student community as Secretary and Vice President of the QUT Cyber Security Club.
She shared with us what inspired her to pursue cyber, the projects she’s been most excited about, and her advice for students looking to enter the field.
Can you tell us a bit about your current role and studies in cyber security?
- Work: Associate, Information Security Governance, Risk and Compliance at QUT (student casual)
- Study: Fifth year Bachelor of Information Technology/Bachelor of Laws (Honours) student at QUT
- Community: Served as Secretary, then Vice President of QUT Cyber Security Club from early 2024- early 2025
What inspired you to pursue cyber security?
I have always found cyber security fascinating but wasn’t sure how my skills could fit. Studying IFB240 Cybersecurity opened my eyes to the variety of roles beyond ethical hacking and made me realise I could combine my Law and IT skills to help protect people and organisations.
What projects or experiences have you worked on recently that excite you most?
Working at QUT in the Information Security team has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve learnt from experienced professionals while being trusted to contribute meaningfully to projects that strengthen the university’s security posture.
What excites you about the future of cyber security?
I’m excited to see how the law adapts to the ever-changing cyber threat landscape, particularly around privacy, as more aspects of our lives move online and onto the cloud.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in cyber security?
Get involved with cyber security communities, even if it feels intimidating at first. You’ll find that there are so many people who genuinely want to help you learn, grow, and succeed.
Your future in cyber security
Thinking about a career in cyber security? With opportunities to combine technical expertise, law, problem-solving and community, it’s a field full of diverse pathways and exciting challenges. If you’re curious about protecting people, data and organisations in an increasingly digital world, cyber security might be the right fit for you.
