Source: Eastern Institute of Technology
5 minutes ago
After returning to study following a 16-year break, EIT Auckland Master of Information Technology graduate Afshan Mushtaq has secured hands-on experience in cybersecurity through an industry internship.
Originally from Pakistan and most recently living in Qatar, Afshan moved to New Zealand in July 2024 with her family to pursue further study and new opportunities.
Before returning to study, Afshan worked as a quality assurance engineer in Pakistan after completing her bachelor’s degree in 2006, stepping away from her career in 2009.
EIT Auckland Master of Information Technology graduate Afshan Mushtaq graduate gained hands-on experience in cybersecurity through an industry internship with Cianaa Technologies.
She chose to study at Eastern Institute of Technology after researching her options and speaking with other students.
“Before coming, I looked into the environment, cost and student outcomes, and EIT stood out.”
Returning to study after such a long gap meant adjusting to new material.
“Whenever I asked a question, I was welcomed and it was addressed properly.”
She arrived with her husband and three children, aged 14, 12 and seven.
“The journey was not easy. It was quite tough because I didn’t know anyone at the start and there were cultural challenges. But the thing is, I have completed my degree.”
The highlight of her Master’s, she said, was her research project on cybersecurity implications for large language models.
Its real-world relevance led directly to an internship opportunity with Cianaa Technologies, despite her having no prior background in the field.
The internship, which began in December 2025, has given Afshan hands-on exposure to information security and compliance work, including audit activities aligned with international standards.
“The initial phase was challenging, but the team supported me and helped me build confidence.”
She has since developed stronger analytical and technical skills and a clearer understanding of how cybersecurity works in practice and is now focused on building a career in the field.
“It’s an area that is in demand, and the experience really motivated me.”
Afshan said she would recommend EIT to other international students.
“You get to learn what is in demand in the market, and the support makes a real difference,” she said.
EIT Postgraduate Information Technology Lecturer Dr Akbar Hossain says: “Afshan’s journey is truly inspiring”.
“Her successful transition into cybersecurity demonstrates the real-world impact of EIT’s industry-focused Master of Information Technology programme. We are proud of her achievements and the strong industry connections that turned her research into a valuable internship opportunity.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/06/15/eit-graduate-rebuilds-career-through-cybersecurity-internship/