So you have questions about the in2securITy summer project? You've come to the right place. Before you email us, check out the following frequently asked questions.

Participants

How do I sign up to do a summer project?
The process for summer project application will be announced in Spring 2012. Places on the project are limited and as such, the application process will be competitive. Applicants should be prepared to submit a current CV and (should it be required) attend interviews with programme or business managers in person or via Skype. Consideration will be given for those participants who have been actively engaged with the in2securITy project throughout the year, as well as those showing motivation and a desire to learn.

Does everyone get a summer project?
IT Security is a challenging field. As much as we would love to offer projects to everyone, there just aren't enough places to go around. In addition, not all participants in the in2securITy scheme will be skilled and ready enough to undertake the challenges of a summer project in their first year. Remember though, even if you are unsuccessful in your application, there will be many events over the summer aimed to improve your skills and help you experience new aspects of IT security.

What's in it for me?
As a participant in the in2securITy summer project, you can expect to be given a well defined, IT security project to be completed over 4-8 weeks. This project will be tailored to your specialism and be in conjunction with a New Zealand based company that has experience in that field. Although unpaid, participants should expect to work with an IT Security mentor, gain valuable contacts and on completion receive a letter of recommendation.

Do I have to move to a city to take part?
No. We realise that it can be tricky when you start out in an industry to gain experience without moving to a city, however we also appreciate how expensive that move can be (especially if you are still a student). We hope to offer a range of flexible projects that can be completed remotely or in the office, dependant on the circumstances. So long as you have access to some form of communications (email, Skype, cell phone) we're sure that we can make it work.

Businesses

My company can't have interns or students in my office due to Non-Disclosure Agreements - can my company still be involved?
The details of each summer project can be tailored to the companies and participants involved. If you can't have a participant in your office for any reason, why not consider a remote project and let the participant work from home? So long as both the business and participant have clear and easy communication channels for the 4-8 week period - there's nothing to stand in your way.

My company is small, can we still be involved?
Even the smallest IT security team or company can get involved. All you need is an idea for a small project that can be completed in 4-8 weeks. This could be a research piece, coding or analysis... its up to you. All you need is a little time to guide a participant and ensure they are on the right track.

My company already has a formal intern-ship scheme - how can we still be involved?
Formal intern programmes are fantastic, however they don't always have places for IT security specialists. Why not check with your senior management and see if you can take run a remote summer project instead? If not, consider encouraging your IT security staff to be involved with in2securITy as mentors.

What will it cost my company?
Time, a little creativity and patience. So long as the participant is engaged and gaining relevant experience - the summer project will be a success. Of course if your organisation would like to sponsor the in2securITy project on a more formal basis - that would be fantastic. See our getting involved section for details of becoming a sponsor and our wish list.

My organisation has never been involved with this sort of scheme - what help can we get?
It's never to late to start. All organisations involved with the summer project will have advice and guidance on choosing a project and guiding a participant for the duration. Questions and concerns can be raised at any time and the team here at in2securITy will be in touch to help.