Catching up with: Yurian Lagrand, Student of the Main Scholarship Program

The Main Scholarship is an initiative of the Main Social Institute, launched by Main Capital Partners, with the aim of bridging the gap between prospective talent and the software industry. Unlike traditional scholarships, which focus solely on financial aid, this program has a broader vision – to nurture the next generation of tech leaders through a holistic approach. Through a mentorship program by a seasoned tech professional from one of Main’s portfolio companies, aspiring computer technologists – like Yurian – are provided with valuable first-hand experience and knowledge to jumpstart their professional careers.

Navigating the Cybersecurity Landscape

Last year, Yurian received an email from a student association containing details about the program. This immediately caught his interest, as he saw it as a great opportunity to jumpstart his career as cyber security technologist. Yurian’s deep interest in cybersecurity resides in the complexity of programming and the way all computers are set up and configured differently:

“I enjoy problem-solving and that is exactly what you can do with programming. Programming is like solving a complex puzzle, where every line of code is a piece that fits into a larger picture. What draws me specifically to cyber security is the thrill of unraveling the intricate challenges within this digital puzzle.”

For Yurian, cyber security is not just about writing code; it’s about crafting solutions that fortify our online world against potential threats, turning cybersecurity into a dynamic and ever-evolving game of strategic problem-solving.
“My focus is on how to handle software efficiently. Achieving a goal with software is relatively straightforward, but ensuring it’s both secure and efficient is a more complex challenge that I find compelling. It’s not just about what software can do or the innovation behind it that interests me, but how we use software,” he explains.

Amidst the expansive realm of computer technology, Yurian at a young age has already discovered his interest in a specialized field. A scholarship program that recognizes his ambition and special interest can provide tailored opportunities for him to develop his expertise and network in the intricate field of digital defense.

“In five years’ time I want to work for a cyber security company, and particularly I see myself working as a so-called pen tester. I find it intriguing to assess the security of other companies’ systems and enhance them. Beyond that, research into new vulnerabilities is also something I find very interesting. I believe that the Main Scholarship program will help me act on my interests and see what’s really out there in the real world.”

Networking: Opening doors to opportunities

One of the defining aspects of Yurian’s scholarship experience so far is the mentorship provided by seasoned professionals in the field. The scholarship program also offers an extensive network of industry professionals and fellow scholars. Regular networking events, conferences and workshops provide Yurian with the chance to connect with leaders in the tech space, fostering collaborations and opening doors to internships and job opportunities.

“The chance to broaden my network and gain practical insights into how things operate in the industry really excites me. University tends to be theoretical, and you often have to actively seek opportunities to expand your knowledge beyond textbooks or academics.”

Real world applications: Bridging theory with practice

Indeed, the program provides a valuable bridge between academia and the real world. Having a mentor who understands the nuances of cybersecurity will be instrumental in shaping Yurian’s professional development. It’s not only about learning theoretical concepts, but understanding the industry and this program will continue to give him the right know-how.

He adds: “So far, I’ve learned a lot about the software industry through the mentorship and visiting companies like Enovation. While not directly related to cybersecurity, it was interesting to see how software engineering projects function in a real-world setting. The conferences have been eye-opening, feeding my fascination with cyber security.”

When asked what Yurian hopes to gain from the Main Scholarship Program he explained:

“My biggest motivation is to accumulate hands-on experience in cybersecurity. I look forward to engaging with more companies in the sector, undertaking projects, and attending conferences like DEFCON in Las Vegas. Building expertise in cybersecurity is crucial due to the myriad ways one can attack a computer. The Main Scholarship facilitates these experiences and connections within the industry.”
The Main Scholarship Program, to him, is a gateway to a broader understanding of his chosen field.