PhD student and campus community leader Gaspard Bay ’25 came from Cameroon to study at Dartmouth, MA to pursue an advanced degree in cybersecurity studies.
Gaspard Bay ’25, a PhD student and campus community leader, came from Cameroon to pursue an advanced degree in cybersecurity studies at Dartmouth, Massachusetts. With a strong focus on machine learning and artificial intelligence, Gaspard works to make the world a safer place while also serving as a leader and advocate for his fellow students.
What made you choose Dartmouth, MA?
“When I was working on an international project with ATR Cyber, I met Dr. Lance Fiondella, who encouraged me to come here for my Ph.D.
“I wanted to come to the United States because it is a place where talent is valued and where there are more opportunities in the field of cybersecurity. It’s up to me.
“At Dartmouth College, I have the opportunity to work closely with faculty who are experts in their field. UMassD is my first choice when it comes to proposing new ideas and having them validated by faculty. .”
What do you think is special about Dartmouth, Massachusetts?
“The community aspect of the campus makes it a special place. People here are kind to each other and are always happy to help, even strangers. Faculty are open to new ideas.” .There is a strong sense of belonging.” Even though you are far from home, you feel at home. ”
What is the most interesting thing about cybersecurity to you?
“Cybersecurity is constantly evolving and changing every day. There are always new challenges. It requires creative thinking to come up with new ways to defend computer systems, people, data and technology.”
What is your research focus?
“My research focuses on leveraging deep learning and artificial intelligence (AI) to speed up vulnerability detection and mitigation. Deep learning is inspired by how the human brain works. A kind of machine learning, AI is a tool., and, just like any other tool, There are threat actors who take advantage of this to do harm. We expect to be able to use machine learning to defend against threat actors who are using it for harmful purposes. ”
What is your role in the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)?
“I served as President of the National Association of Black Engineers for UMassD in the 2022-2023 academic year. It’s about uplifting others to follow.”
“NSBE members also have access to personal and professional development activities and the opportunity to connect with top companies in our field. We partner with organizations and companies that understand the value of NSBE. Seeking NSBE students, especially for jobs and internships, joined more than 10,000 NSBE members across the country at the annual convention in Kansas City, where more than 300 companies were recruiting.
“NSBE is important because our members are often offended.”DareBe a representative in your field or a first-generation college student. It is important for students to see others like themselves succeed. There is a saying, “Show me your friends and I’ll tell you who you are.” NSBE offers not only a strong peer network, but also mentorship, friendship and academic support. ”
As chairman of NSBE, what are your challenges and rewards as a leader?
“I asked for a leadership role because I wanted to learn, and I definitely learned a lot. Managing computer systems is easy, but managing people is much harder.
“One of the challenges of being a leader was that I didn’t always know the answer to a question or problem. I learned that I don’t have to know everything, it’s time to be a good leader.
“I also learned how to effectively advocate for my students by giving them the opportunities they need and raising money for their trips. But it’s also very rewarding to help students land their dream jobs and internships.”
How has Dartmouth College prepared you for your future?
“UMassD has matched me with the right people and helped me develop leadership, management and technical skills. This school has prepared me academically, but it has also prepared me for life.” I did.”
Do you have any advice for current or future UMassD students?
“Don’t be afraid to ask your faculty or other students for help. There’s always someone where you are.”
What are your plans after completing your PhD?
“Cybersecurity is changing rapidly. New threats to our privacy and safety are constantly looming. want to join the fight to protect
“I want my work to contribute to the betterment of humanity and the improvement of people’s lives., As a teacher, I want to give back to the community. When it comes to my career, whether it’s an engineer or an educator, I’m open-minded as long as it aligns with my mission to improve people’s lives. ”
