Rowland School of Business Alumna Chereese Langley is a Cybersecurity Governance Analyst Alumni Profile

Why did you choose Point Park?

I chose Point Park mostly because of the track and field team, the value of going to a smaller-sized university and the ability to make professional connections with the professors. I also loved that it was located right in Downtown Pittsburgh.

During your time at Point Park, you participated in the co-op program at Schneider Downs. What was that experience like?

I worked in the internal auditing department (risk advisory services), performing internal audits, SOX (Sarbanes Oxley) audits, and SOC (service organization controls) audits. I gained my first true working experience from Schneider Downs and had mentors there who I got to learn from and helped me excel. I learned a lot of new skills and got to meet new people, resulting in lifelong friendships. 

Point Park's co-op program is an amazing program that I recommend to any student who is able to take advantage of it. I could not pass up the opportunity to receive an internship while getting school credits, allowing me to focus on graduation as well as information that was specifically applicable to my career. Because of this program and my internship, I received a full-time offer at Schneider Downs following graduation.

How did Point Park help prepare you for your career?

I can’t say enough about how great Point Park was for preparing me for the future and my career. Actually getting to know the professors and creating those relationships were huge advantages. I made connections I still have to this day. The small class sizes made it a lot easier for me to focus, and I just felt more valued as a student. The co-op program was also a great resource to jumpstart getting that experience in my profession. 

Did you have a favorite professor or class? 

My favorite professor would have to be Ed Scott, my accounting professor. He is actually the reason why I found my interest in accounting and switched majors my freshman year. He truly cares about his students and wants to see you succeed. I think he was known as a tough teacher, only because he could see your full potential. He pushes you to be better and really wants each of his students to excel.

What makes Point Park's accounting program stand out from that of other universities?

Point Park’s accounting program offers so much to each student. I can’t emphasize enough the face-to-face time you get with your professor. It is so easy to get any questions you have answered and build those professional relationships. Not only that, but within the accounting program at Point Park, you will receive so many opportunities for additional scholarships and awards. I had the opportunity to have lunch with the Deloitte CEO because of this program! I learned so much from each class and each accounting professor.

What are your favorite Point Park memories?

I definitely have to say my time being a competitive athlete, breaking some of the track and field records, the campus-hosted activities and all the time spent with my friends.

What does your role entail at Brighthouse?

I currently work in the IT security department at Brighthouse as a cybersecurity governance analyst. I work on numerous projects that include KPI/KRI reporting, records management, governance within the organization, creating metrics around vulnerability scans, security exceptions and business resiliency and analyzing cyber risk among the organization, as well as helping build out the cyber security framework for the company.

I love my position and never thought I would end up in this type of role. I enjoy what I get to do. I get to wear so many different hats, and I continue to learn something new all the time. Not only that, but everyone on the team is awesome, which makes any job that much more enjoyable.

What career advice do you have for current students?

Take advantage of any type of internship opportunity while you can, and get involved in different groups and associations!

Why would you recommend Point Park to a prospective student?

I would recommend Point Park because of the quality of the teaching and having small class sizes combined with the atmosphere and being right in the city. The education will truly give you a solid foundation for your future.

Connect with Chereese Langley '18

More About: Career Development Center, Rowland School of Business, business management, Student Accounting Association, athletics, scholarships, Pittsburgh, Dubois Area High School, accounting, co-op program, student athletes