Madeleine Hott

Innovating and Inspiring: Meet Madeleine Hott, Communications Major and CCI Commentator

Communications with a minor in Ethnic Studies, 2026

What drew you to come work at the Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute?

I was drawn to work at the Cal Poly Cybersecurity Institute because I was excited to engage in cutting edge research that works to address real cybersecurity issues in our world. The rise of social media and online interaction has completely changed how we interact. It is essential that we educate ourselves on how to protect our personal information for the next generation. On top of that, the Cybersecurity Institute offers a collaborative experience that encourages outreach. The information I learn here can be taken to other communities and businesses in the future.

What were you involved in before joining the Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute, whether at Cal Poly or elsewhere?

Cal Poly is known for its interactive and welcoming community. Throughout college I have had the opportunity to try out numerous different clubs and interests. Currently, I am involved with the Cal Poly debate team which has helped me immensely with my persuasion skills. I really enjoy working out, SLO has some great running spots, and I encourage those who enjoy cardio to take advantage of them!

What interests you about cybersecurity or technology?

I think what interests me most about cybersecurity and technology is that it is a constantly evolving landscape. Technology has an immense impact in society, and I think it’s interesting that cybersecurity plays such a critical role in protecting ourselves, organizations, and communities. Cybersecurity is also innovative and requires a lot of problem-solving which is really intellectually rewarding.

What part of your role at Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute are you most eager to dive into, and why?

I am a commentator at the Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute! Some of the things I am most excited about for this role are the team dynamics, collaborative nature, creative freedom, and problem solving. I will be observing the teams in the Space Grand Challenge, and I am super interested to see how they will engage in problem solving when competing.

How does the Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute fit in your future career?

The Cal Poly California Cybersecurity Institute offers a solid background on how to keep our personal information safe. I am currently majoring in Communication at Cal Poly; in the future I will be working with people. The education that I receive about cybersecurity in this position will be a solid framework for defending my future information or client information.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work or school that you think helps you in cybersecurity?

Activities that I enjoy doing outside of work or school that helps me in cybersecurity would be my creative hobbies and physical fitness. I think physical fitness helps me to build discipline which is essential when maintaining cybersecurity. I also really enjoy video games and I think its important to practice safe habits online always.

What are you excited to work on or learn about with the CCI coming up in the future?

I am really excited to learn about the intricacies of cybersecurity. I think it will also be super entertaining to encourage the youth to use safe habits online. With our everchanging world it is really up to us to set a solid foundation of how security habits are built.