Hi, my name is
BSc Cyber Security student at Birmingham City University, aiming for First Class Honours. I build a strong foundation in networking, ethical hacking and security operations, one packet capture, one lab, one CTF at a time.
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Muhammad Hamza Rafeh
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Cyber Security Student | Aspiring SOC Analyst
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Securing the digital future_
I'm a BSc Cyber Security student at Birmingham City University, currently on track for a predicted First Class Honours. My path into security started with an engineering foundation, a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (D*D*D), that shaped how I approach systems: methodically, and with an eye for how things break.
Alongside my degree, I'm completing a Diploma in Artificial Intelligence at Sungkyunkwan University (South Korea), exploring how AI intersects with modern defensive security.
My experience spans technical labs and real operational environments: from handling confidential patient data as a healthcare receptionist, to building solutions under pressure at hackathons like UniHack. I'm especially drawn to SOC operations, ethical hacking, and networking, and I'm currently working toward CompTIA Security+.
I bring strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a calm head under pressure, traits I'm looking to put to work in a Cyber Security, SOC Analyst, Network Security or IT Support role.
Predicted Honours, BSc Cyber Security
CompTIA Certification: In Progress
Hands-on security & networking labs
Community & charity volunteering
Managed confidential patient data, appointment scheduling and front-desk operations in a fast-paced healthcare environment. Developed strong discretion, communication and multi-tasking skills while handling sensitive information under strict confidentiality standards, a mindset that carries directly into data protection and security practice.
Collaborated in a team to design and build a technical solution within a tight time limit. Contributed to problem framing, rapid prototyping and presenting the final solution, sharpening my ability to perform under pressure and work effectively as part of a technical team.
Self-directed and academic lab projects exploring core security disciplines.
Captured and analyzed live network traffic to identify anomalies, suspicious packets and potential intrusion indicators at the packet level.
Strengthened packet-level analysis and pattern recognition for network-based attacks.
Built a virtual lab environment to scan systems for known vulnerabilities and misconfigurations using industry-standard scanning tools.
Learned to identify, prioritize and report vulnerabilities using a structured assessment methodology.
Developed a custom Python-based network port scanner to detect open ports and running services on target systems.
Deepened network programming knowledge and reinforced Python for security automation.
Simulated a Security Operations Center environment by configuring a SIEM to collect, correlate and alert on log data from multiple sources.
Gained hands-on exposure to SOC workflows, log correlation and incident triage.
Conducted ethical password-cracking exercises in a controlled lab to understand hashing weaknesses and the importance of strong password policy.
Learned hash algorithms, brute-force/dictionary attacks, and password policy design.
Industry-recognized certification covering core security concepts, risk management, network security and incident response.
Focused study in cyber security fundamentals, networking, risk management and secure systems design.
Exploring the intersection of AI and modern defensive security practices.
Built a strong analytical and technical foundation, including CAD and systems-based problem solving.
Active member engaging with peers on technical projects, events and community learning around computing and security.
5+ years volunteering within the local community, building empathy, reliability and a strong sense of civic responsibility.
I'm actively looking for opportunities in Cyber Security, SOC Analysis, Network Security, IT Support or Graduate Tech roles. Whether you have an opening, a question, or just want to connect, my inbox is open.
hamzarafeh3@gmail.com 07999 924813 linkedin.com/in/muhammad-hamza-rafeh-7b377132b github.com/hamzarafeh3-afk