#MyCyberWhy 31: Ellen Xu (she/her), Researcher, Fencer, Podcast Host

Welcome to “My Cyber Why”! — a glimpse into the life and work of experts from around the world who have dedicated themselves to protecting cyberspace.

There’s no shortage of scary headlines about the latest hacks and malware releases. But what doesn’t make the headlines are the inspiring stories of the people who work every day to make the cyber world a safer place. These are their stories and cybersecurity is their passion.

In each episode guests answer four questions:

1. Who are you?

2. What do you do in cyber?

3. Why do you do it?

4. How can people get involved or learn more?

Today’s guest is Ellen Xu, a Researcher, Fencer, and Podcast Host. Ellen lives in San Diego, where she attends school. Ellen is currently conducting research at the UC San Diego Kawasaki Disease Research Center focusing on exploring the frontiers of technology, medicine, and entrepreneurship. She participated as a memner of the National Champion team at CyberPatriot XIII, the world’s largest cybersecurity competition. Is a 2 time International Science and Engineering Fair finalist, and Junior Olympic fencer where she served as captain of the silver medalist team.

In her free time, Ellen enjoys fencing saber and taking long hikes in nature, and connecting with new people over podcast conversations — like this one!

Ready? Great! Let’s listen to Ellen’s #MyCyberWhy!

Ellen’s #MyCyberWhy

Timestamps

[00:19] Welcome Ellen and congratulations!

[00:37] Who is Ellen? Californian, volunteer, champion

[01:41] What’s it like competing?

[02:57] Is cyber your future career or a hobby?

[03:37] Volunteering, inspiration, and paying it forward

[05:20] What’s your “why”?

[07:28] How can people get involved?

[08:35] An inspiring young woman!

Thanks for listening!

Want to get involved? Do you or someone you know have a Cyber Why? Reach out to me on LinkedIn or Twitter