An energetic start to a career in cybersecurity
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—From Accra, Ghana, Gabriel Gyimah is taking his career to the next level by pursuing a Master of Science in cybersecurity from Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business. As a first-year graduate student, Gyimah is not only achieving a robust education, but he is also setting himself up for a fulfilling career.
With a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical and electronics engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration, Gyimah is bringing his energy for learning to a new facet of his future career.
“My professional career began with a foundation in electrical engineering, where I developed strong analytical skills,” he says. “I later expanded my perspective by pursuing legal education, which deepened my understanding of regulation, compliance and ethical decision making in complex organizations.”
So why did Gyimah choose cybersecurity at WMU? “The cybersecurity program enables me to combine my technical background with my interests in policy, governance and risk management. The program’s interdisciplinary structure aligns closely with my goal of contributing to secure and compliant systems in real-world environments.”
With a high-demand program, support is essential. Gyimah has formed valuable relationships at WMU Haworth to help safeguard his success.
“I have found a meaningful mentor in Beth Ernst, the faculty specialist for the Academic and Business Communication Skills course. Her guidance has been instrumental in helping me navigate career development within the American professional context, particularly as an international student learning workplace norms, expectations and communication styles. She has also supported my integration into the Kalamazoo community by encouraging cultural engagement, confidence and effective communication across diverse settings.”
During his time at WMU, Gyimah has welcomed the changes in his education and career. “I have learned to embrace complex problems that do not have immediate or simple solutions,” he says. “This experience has also reinforced my appreciation for collaboration and lifelong learning. I am grateful to be part of a community that values critical thinking, ethical leadership and student development.”
As he prepares for his final year in the program, Gyimah is looking ahead to the impact he can make as a professional.
“I plan to apply my cybersecurity education in roles related to governance, risk and compliance, as well as security policy and technology risk management. My goal is to help organizations design security programs that strike a balance between innovation and regulatory and ethical obligations.”
Learn more about the WMU M.S. in cybersecurity.
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