Desmond Somseb
bob Finance AG
Bachelor Student in Computer Science in Cybersecurity
Namibia University of Science and Technology
February 01 - April 30, 2022
At work
I interned at Bob Finance AG for three months in the Information Technology department. During my stay at the company, I worked with a lovely team that was pleasant and accommodating. My mentor was Mr. Olaf Haase. I was invited to regular lunch which made me feel welcomed and a part of the team. We also attended a culinary class at Hiltl Academy, as a company where we prepared our dinner for that evening.
Penetration testing of an online application for bob credit consumers, which was released to the public in early April 2022, was my primary focus throughout my internship. The main purpose was to see how vulnerable the web application was and whether its data and resources were protected from unauthorized access, and if they weren't, to address vulnerabilities before the release. During my internship, the tasks allocated to me helped me enhance both my soft and hard talents. Along with that, I gained valuable insight into the IT industry and its operations.
My Swiss host family
I had the pleasure of staying with two different host families. I was the Niederer`s first. They greeted me with warm hugs at the airport, and my host mother (Elizabeth) was already radiating motherly affection, which she continued to maintain during my time with them. Despite his language barriers, my host father (Hans) was quite engaging. He would constantly keep me informed about the weather and any transportation concerns that I might encounter during my trips. Every night at dinner, they would inquire about my day, ask if I had any difficulties, and generally ensure that I was healthy and comfortable.
Due to the crisis in Ukraine, the Niederer family accommodated a group of refugees, which caused space constraints in the house, and I was relocated to the Abdulkadir family after two months. Similarly, to the Niederer family, the Abdulkadir family was interested in what I was doing at work, how I would spend my free time, and if I needed their help in any way from the moment I arrived at their home.
Both families welcomed me into their homes and treated me as one of their own.
My highlights and challenges
Highlights include: my first snow experience with the other interns at Mt. Rigi, traveling throughout Switzerland with the GA, visiting Paris, France to see the Eifel Tower, visiting the Louvre Museum, and watching a Paris Saint-Germain game live, among other things.
Challenges included: The weather (adapted and got used to the cold), Transport (which was alleviated by SBB application), and the concern of coronavirus making me work from home at times (Virtual meetings and chats ensured I did not miss out on interaction with colleagues).
My future plans
In the near future, I plan to expand my cybersecurity certifications and complete my current degree. My internship experience, together with my credentials, will enable me to work in the business, military, legal, or finance sectors.
In the long run, I want to earn a master's degree in digital forensics and serve as a Computer Information Security Officer. I also want to make a difference in Namibia, which is still a developing country with plenty of room for cybersecurity progress.
Personal message
I want to express my gratitude to the B360 Alumni for their assistance with our preparation for coming here and the final presentation.
Future interns, this is an incredible opportunity to develop into young, dynamic leaders, and you should take full advantage of it. Make no apologies for making mistakes; this is how you will become the finest version of yourself.
To B360, bob Finance AG, my host families, and Namibia University of Science of technology, thank you for investing in me. I appreciate the opportunity to not only gain business experience but also to have new cultural knowledge. Thank you sincerely!