My team and I wrapped up our Week 3 weekly meeting today. The mood is optimistic and there is an excitement in the air at the prospect of making something cool. We did research on different tools and techniques that will be needed to analyze malware in a safe, isolated environment. We also discussed how to create a virtual machine (VM), how to install an operating system, and how to create a virtual network for VMs to connect to. All the pieces are starting to fall into place and an understanding of what a Malware Analysis lab is supposed to look and act like is forming. My teammates are compassionate and friendly. We are all committed to creating a comfortable environment for collaboration and learning.
In the same week, I was clinically diagnosed with ADHD Inattentive disorder. Suddenly, my life makes sense. An understanding is beginning to form and a compassion for myself is starting to emerge. I am optimistic about the future, and there is a cautious excitement about the prospect of controlling my ADHD symptoms. After my diagnosis, I did extensive research about the disorder itself, the physiological mechanism behind it, the comorbidities that sometimes accompany the disorder (such as anxiety and depression), and the available medical and behavioral interventions that help manage the symptoms. I have an appointment with my doctor for this upcoming Monday, and I am looking forward to working with such a compassionate and understanding medical professional.
This has been a great few weeks of discovery, understanding, and cautious excitement both in my academic and personal life!
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