From Computer Science to Cybersecurity: How Rommel Christ Gouala Built His Tech Skills in Washington, D.C.

Rommel Christ Gouala, a rising senior studying Computer Science at Frostburg State University, spent his summer as an IT intern at the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) through The Washington Center's (TWC) Academic Internship Program.

Over the term, he built more than 20 web pages, worked hands-on in cybersecurity and interviewed transit-industry security leaders, all while two scholarships covered his costs. Here is his experience in his own words. 

Tell us about your IT internship at APTA 

I did front-end and back-end development, network tasks, cybersecurity and IT help desk support, all in one internship. 

Because I reported to three different supervisors, my day-to-day was really diverse and hands-on; no two days looked quite the same. The project I am proud of was building more than 20 web pages for APTA's main website. Seeing something I built go live on a real organization site, and not a class assignment, made all the difference. 

What skills and networking opportunities did you gain at your internship? 

I got hands-on experience with SIEM software, penetration testing results and administrative access to nearly every tool I touched. 

On the technical side, I got hands-on experience with SIEM software, similar to Splunk, using it to track threats and vulnerabilities, and I worked with audit records, system logs and penetration testing results. My supervisors, Jeremy Rueter, Marc Osman, and Hai Tran, trusted me with administrative access to nearly every tool I touched, which is rare for an intern and taught me a lot. On the development side, I strengthened my JavaScript, SQL, and PHP.  

The networking was just as valuable. I got to connect with and interview industry leaders like Joel D. Waugh, VP of Cybersecurity at Metro, and Tim Coogan, Director and CISO of Cybersecurity at the Regional Transportation District. Hearing how they built their careers taught me things I could never have picked up on my own. 

What were you concerned about when applying to TWC, and how did you overcome those concerns? 

I worried about landing an IT-specific role and about the cost of living, but APTA covered my commute and the office often provided meals. 

My biggest worry going in was whether I would land an internship directly related to IT. I was open to non-IT roles if they would help me build professional soft skills, but I really wanted the technical experience, and fortunately the stars aligned and I got the IT internship at APTA. My other concern was the cost of living in D.C., especially food and transportation. A few things really helped: I was fortunate to receive a full program scholarship, as well as the State of Maryland (DET) scholarship, which made attending the program in D.C. financially possible for me. APTA fully covered my commute, which took a huge weight off my shoulders and having an Aldi nearby kept groceries affordable.  

Most unforgettable moments in D.C. 

A few experiences will stay with me. 

First was visiting the Metro Integrated Command Center (MICC). Seeing firsthand what it takes to protect public transportation, both physically and digitally through their cybersecurity team and viewing all the real-time transit camera feeds was incredible. I also had the amazing opportunity to visit the Pentagon alongside fellow interns from APTA. Another unforgettable highlight was visiting the Hillwood Estate with my roommate. Exploring the mansion's Russian art collection and walking through the Japanese garden was beautiful and we captured some great photos.

Frequently Asked Questions for Computer Science Majors 

What kind of internships can computer science majors expect at The Washington Center? 

Students in The Washington Center's Academic Internship Program can pursue internships in technology, information technology, cybersecurity software development and related fields. Organizations across industries need students with technical skills to help develop websites, manage systems, support users, strengthen cybersecurity and solve technology problems.

How much responsibility can a computer science major expect as an intern? 

More than you might think, especially at a smaller or lesser-known organization. Christ was trusted with administrative access to nearly every tool he touched, something he described as rare for an intern.  

Can computer science majors get internships outside of technology companies? 

Absolutely. Technology is part of nearly every industry, which means computer science students can find opportunities in organizations that may not immediately look like technology employers. Transportation organizations, government agencies, nonprofits, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, associations and advocacy groups all rely on technology and need people who understand how to build, maintain, secure and improve their systems.  

How important is networking for computer science majors, and how does it actually work in practice? 

Very important, but it does not have to be intimidating. For a clearer picture of what real networking looks like and what it doesn't, Three Common Myths and Misconceptions About Networking is a good place to start.  

What can computer science majors gain from an internship in Washington, D.C.? 

Real, live technical work to point to, direct exposure to cybersecurity and development tools and relationships with professionals already working in the field.  

Why an Internship Makes the Difference 

A college degree is important. But increasingly, employers want to know what you can actually do with what you've learned. Internships give students the opportunity to build that bridge before graduation, developing professional skills, relationships and experience that a classroom alone cannot provide. If you're wondering whether an internship is worth your time, the better question may be: What will you be able to do after college if you don't have one? 

Interested in turning your Computer Science coursework into real-world experience?

Explore The Washington Center's Academic Internship Program and discover how students can build technical skills, professional networks and experience in Washington, D.C. 

About the Author

For 50 years, The Washington Center has been the largest experiential learning program in Washington, D.C. We've helped more than 70,000 students and young professionals transform their academic pursuits into rewarding careers through internships, immersive seminars and professional development programs. We aim to empower every participant to secure a better future for themselves, while connecting employers with emerging talent.

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