Tanner Atkinson's journey to becoming a cybersecurity professional

Tanner Atkinson’s graduation from the University of Richmond's School of Professional and Continuing Studies (SPCS) marks not just the culmination of his academic journey, but a testament to his unwavering perseverance and self-belief. After starting as a struggling student in grade school, Atkinson is now employed full-time as an Information Technology Analyst at Brown Edwards.

Atkinson, in his late twenties, embarked on his higher education path after transferring from Reynolds Community College to SPCS in spring 2023, majoring in Information Security. His decision to return to school was profoundly personal.

“I returned to school to change the direction of my life and prove to myself that I could achieve more than my past grades suggested,” he explained.

This desire for self-improvement stemmed from a want to build a secure future for himself and his family. This ambition transformed into tangible results. The practical knowledge gained at SPCS played a pivotal role in landing him an internship, which in turn, facilitated his full-time employment at Brown Edwards.

“Returning to school completely changed my career path,” Atkinson stated. “The hands-on experience, combined with my coursework, gave me the confidence and qualifications I needed.”

Atkinson selected SPCS for its flexibility and supportive community, noting that the program provided the ideal balance for a working student. He also highlighted the faculty's dedication.

“The faculty have been incredible,” he reflected. “They bring real-world experience into the classroom, offer practical insights, and always made time to help when I needed guidance or support.”

This mentorship proved invaluable, especially considering his biggest challenge as an adult student: balancing work, school, and life while managing procrastination. “Learning to manage my time effectively and stay on top of assignments was tough, but overcoming it made me more resilient and focused,” he said.

His academic success didn't come without strong support. Atkinson expressed deep gratitude to his wife, Lydia, his mother-in-law, Marcy, and his stepfather, Trey, for their unwavering belief in him. He also acknowledged the significant guidance of his advisor, Mary Raymond, and his mentor and professor Daryl Jackson.

Looking ahead, Atkinson intends to further his expertise in security and networking through certifications and ultimately aims to transition into a cybersecurity role. He sees graduation as a celebration of the collective effort and determination of everyone on this journey. “It’s a recognition of how far we’ve come and the challenges we’ve overcome as a community,” he noted.

Atkinson’s story stands as an inspiration, a compelling example of how dedication, self-belief, and the right support system can transform potential into achievement.