About Me

Hey there, I'm Megan! I’m a recent graduate from Montana State University with a degree in Computer Science. I’m passionate about using technology to solve problems, whether that’s crafting intuitive digital experiences or tackling cybersecurity challenges. I thrive on diving into complex problems and finding creative solutions. When I’m not coding, hacking, or designing, you’ll likely find me outdoors, hiking local trails. I also enjoy expressing my creativity through painting and drawing. Overall, I’m a driven individual who thrives at the intersection of technology and creativity.

Experience

Researcher at MSU Software Engineering & Cybersecurity Lab

Employing Snort, Wireshark, and Docker for network quality research purposes. Developing various testing methodologies to validate the consistency of these software tools in analyzing network traffic.

To view my work: Press Here

Information Security Analyst at Billings Clinic Hospital

I developed and configured custom security alert rules using KQL, collaborated on system architecture to ensure security and compliance, and expanded my knowledge of cybersecurity threats, including network incidents, phishing attacks, and ransomware.

Skills

Technical Skills

Figma, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java, C, C++, Python, Git, Snort, Wireshark, Docker, KQL, R-Studio

Certifications

Figma Certification: Beginner to Pro 2023, MSU Leadership Certification, TryHackMe Certifications

Projects

TreadLightly App Design Thumbnail

UX Design Process: TreadLightly App

The TreadLightly App UX Project unfolds in five stages focusing on user-centric design:


1 - User Research and Empathy: Interviewing 5 participants.

2 - Persona Creation: Defining user needs and challenges.

3 - Ideation: Challenging assumptions using a mind map.

4 - Prototyping: Low-fidelity and high-fidelity prototypes.

5 - User Testing: Validate and refine the high-fidelity prototype.


To view the full process: UX Design Process

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Network Quality Research Using Snort, Wireshark, and Docker

1 - Conducted research on integrating Snort with Wireshark to enhance network security in cloud microservice ecosystems.

2 - Established a robust testing environment through detailed examination of Snort's architecture and configuration setup.

3 - Enhanced proficiency in crafting custom detection rules to effectively identify network threats.

4 - Ongoing exploration of network traffic analysis within Docker environments, focusing on quantifying malware impact on network integrity.


To view the research: Network Quality Research

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Full Stack SQLite Database Web App

The SQLite Web App is a full-stack application that issues SQL queries to the SQLite database and displays various tables based on user input. The Web App includes the following functionalities:


1 - CRUD operations

2 - General and advanced search

3 - Optimistic concurrency

4- Paging


To view the YouTube demo: Web App Demo
To view the Github Repo: Web App Repo

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Visual Design: Fitness App

I developed a monochromatic and scalable design for the Fitness App using Figma. The design process I followed included:


1 - Developed a low-fidelity wireframe.

2 - Decided on colors, themes, and fonts.

3 - Went on to create a first iteration Figma prototype.

4 - Tested the first iteration prototype on gym-goers.

5 - Created a second iteration Figma prototype and changed the home page based on user feedback.


To view the full prototype: Fitness App



Activities

Computer Science Outreach Program

I was chosen to represent the MSU computer science program & teach kids about technology and problem solving!

LinkedIn post: World of Works

2023 Grace Hopper Conference

I am honored to have attended the 2023 Grace Hopper Conference in Orlando, Florida!

LinkedIn post: GHC23



Other Works

Forest & Wildflowers Painting

Oil on canvas painting featuring hues of green.

Flower Vase Painting

Rose painting using oil paints.

Snowy Mountain Painting

Pastel oil painting of a snowy mountain at sunset.

Sunset Field Painting

Oil on canvas painting including warm toned colors.

Get In Touch

I would love to connect with you! Whether you have questions, collaboration opportunities, or just want to say hello, feel free to reach out to me via email.