(HARLINGEN) – Texas State Technical College Computer Networking and Security Technology student Gregory Moran recently received the honor of Most Active Club Member during TSTC’s Student Leadership Banquet for his role as Treasurer in his program’s Cyber Squad Club.

The Harlingen native is expected to graduate with an associate degree in Spring 2018. He already holds a bachelor’s degree in English and was a teacher for seven years before deciding to follow his passion for computers.

When Moran is not studying or leading fundraisers and community service events the 32-year-old can be found working with TSTC’s Information Technology department as a work study and competing with the National Cyber League, an organization that provides ongoing virtual training to help students develop and practice their cyber security knowledge.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate from TSTC I plan on entering the industry and working. This was a career change for me so I’m looking forward to pursuing my passion.

What is your dream job?

My dream job is to work with a penetration testing company as a computer network security auditor testing companies’ network security.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment while at TSTC has been earning a gold medal at my first SkillsUSA state competition in the Internet Working category. I will be traveling to Kentucky in June to compete at the national level.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

The greatest lesson I have learned is to always find a passion and find a way to make it a profession. It’s never too late, I’m an example of that. Also, I have learned to always seek advice. I have struggled with a few classes but with help from my instructors, tutors and classmates I have been able to succeed.

Who at TSTC has influenced your success the most?

The two people who have influenced my success here at TSTC are Associate Professor for Network Security Technology Norma Colunga-Hernandez and Master Instructor Jan Nesmith. Norma was the first person I spoke with when starting my program. She has guided me with my classes and has always been there for me. Jan has also always offered a helping hand with life advice.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

My advice to future TSTC students is this: There is no one secret ingredient to success. All you can do is learn by doing. What I mean is learn, make mistakes, learn from them and try it again.