Open to Opportunities · Graduating May 2026

Khavin
Mahesh

IT student at Marymount University specializing in cybersecurity & systems. Hands-on with homelabs, pentesting tools, and 5+ years of freelance IT support. Targeting SOC Analyst and Help Desk roles on the path to becoming a penetration tester.

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Kali LinuxWiresharkSplunk MetasploitActive Directory PythonNmapVMware
KM
Khavin Mahesh
IT & Cybersecurity Student
5+
Yrs Freelance
4+
Projects
20+
Tools
2026
Graduating
Preparing for CompTIA Security+
SOC AnalystHelp Desk Sys AdminPentesting
About

Background & Education

I'm a B.S. Information Technology student at Marymount University with a minor in Cybersecurity, graduating May 2026. I have a strong preference for hands-on, practical learning — whether building a homelab from scratch, running CTF challenges, or helping real clients solve technical issues.

My cybersecurity work spans both offense and defense. I've built fully virtualized enterprise environments with Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policy; practiced real attacks using Bloodhound, Mimikatz, and CrackMapExec; and analyzed network traffic with Wireshark. I also built a real-time object detection system on a Raspberry Pi for my IT Capstone.

Beyond school, I've provided freelance IT support since 2020 — troubleshooting hardware, software, and network issues for clients across Windows and macOS. That experience gave me the communication and problem-solving foundation that formal education built upon.

I'm currently preparing for CompTIA Security+, staying active through campus organizations, and continuing to expand my homelab. My long-term goal is a career in penetration testing, building from a SOC Analyst or System Administrator role.

Campus Involvement
Vision Vanguard Network — Community Outreach Coordinator
Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) — Event Planner Assistant
Photography Club — Member
South Asian Club — Member
Museum Club — Member
Education
Marymount University
B.S. IT · Minor: Cybersecurity
Expected May 2026 · Arlington, VA
Northern Virginia Community College
A.S. Information Technology
Graduated May 2025 · Manassas, VA
Contact
📞(571) 373-0486
✉khavin.tech@gmail.com
inlinkedin.com/in/khavinmahesh
🐙github.com/Khavin-Mahesh
Relevant Courses
Python Scripting
Digital Forensics
IT Capstone Project
Cybersecurity: Attack & Defend
IT Project Management
Human Computer Interaction
Advanced Java Programming
Computer Networking
Skills

Technical & Soft Skills

🛡️Security
Log AnalysisSecurity MonitoringWiresharkNmapNessusOpenVASMetasploitSplunkBloodhoundMimikatzCrackMapExecHashcatOSINTPhishing AnalysisWPScanBurp Suite
🖥️Systems & OS
Windows 10/11macOSWindows Server 2022Kali LinuxUbuntu ServerActive DirectoryDNS / DHCPGroup PolicyVMware Workstation
⌨️Programming
PythonPowerShellBashSQLJava
🔧Tools & Platforms
Git / GitHubVSCodeMicrosoft 365JiraClickUpTrelloNeo4jMySQLSSHRDPTCP/IP
🤝IT Support
Hardware TroubleshootingSoftware SupportNetwork DiagnosticsRemote SupportPassword ResetsUser Account MgmtTicketing SystemsDocumentation
📋Certifications
CompTIA Security+ (In Progress)CTF CompetitionsSelf-Directed HomelabCybersecurity Training Programs
Soft Skills
🧩
Problem-Solving
Overcame hardware bottlenecks mid-project by rethinking the approach — identified the real constraint and optimized for it.
💬
Communication
Translated complex technical findings into clear client-facing documentation and presentations for non-technical audiences.
🔍
Analytical Thinking
Evaluated vulnerability scan results, determined risk levels, and documented findings — under realistic lab conditions.
🔄
Adaptability
Rebuilt approaches mid-project multiple times in the homelab and capstone — new tools, new methods, same goal.
🤝
Collaboration
Coordinated speakers, teammates, and stakeholders through VVN event planning and group academic projects.
🎯
Attention to Detail
Minor config errors in AD or log analysis can cascade badly — thoroughness is non-negotiable in security work.
Experience

Work History

Freelance IT Support Technician
2020 – PRESENT
Self-Employed
  • Troubleshot hardware, software, and network issues across Windows and macOS systems for a range of clients.
  • Resolved system performance issues, software errors, and connectivity problems including remote support via screen sharing and RDP.
  • Assisted users with password resets, account access, and basic system configurations.
  • Documented issues and solutions to build a repeatable troubleshooting knowledge base.
  • Built strong client-facing communication skills through 5+ years of independent technical support.
Technology Research Analyst Intern
09/2025 – 12/2025
Marymount University · Arlington, VA
  • Assisted users with troubleshooting technical issues within CyberClinic projects.
  • Analyzed datasets and led training sessions on technical tools and security concepts.
  • Documented workflows and technical processes to improve usability and knowledge transfer.
  • Supported the CTF program and contributed to student cybersecurity training initiatives.
Cybersecurity Student Research Assistant
03/2025 – 08/2025
Marymount University · Arlington, VA
  • Researched cybersecurity best practices and security risks affecting small businesses.
  • Assisted in developing documentation and materials to improve organizational security posture.
  • Communicated technical concepts to non-technical users through reports and presentations.
  • Supported system setup and troubleshooting tasks in lab environments.
  • Attended community outreach events to bridge the gap between academic training and real-world business needs.
Community Outreach Coordinator
02/2025 – PRESENT
Vision Vanguard Network · Arlington, VA
  • Collected, organized, and validated structured datasets tracking 200+ external stakeholders and engagement outcomes.
  • Developed standardized documentation and reporting workflows to improve operational accuracy and follow-up consistency.
  • Connected IT and cybersecurity professionals with students to bridge academia and industry.
  • Organized events including "Using AI to Apply," coordinating guest speakers and managing logistics end-to-end.
  • Conducted resume reviews and provided career guidance to fellow students.
Projects

Hands-On Work

01
PythonOpenCVYOLOv8MobileNetRaspberry Pi 3
Real-Time Object Detection System
08/2025 – 12/2025 · IT Capstone (IT489-A)
Built a Python-based computer vision pipeline on Raspberry Pi using OpenCV and YOLOv8 for real-time household object detection, then optimized for low-power hardware constraints.
  • Engineered a detection pipeline on resource-constrained embedded hardware
  • Evaluated accuracy across varying lighting; recorded structured performance results
  • Identified pre-processing and resolution as bottlenecks — tuned accordingly
  • Documented setup, dependencies, testing, and troubleshooting for reproducibility
02
VMwareWindows Server 2022Kali LinuxPowerShellBash
Sys Admin / Cybersecurity Homelab
06/2025 – Present · Self-Directed
Configured a fully virtualized enterprise-style environment with Windows Server 2022, simulating real network infrastructure and using it as a pentesting practice platform.
  • Built AD environment with DNS, DHCP, Group Policy, and user/permission management
  • Analyzed system and network logs to simulate security event monitoring
  • Monitored traffic with Wireshark to detect anomalies and investigate threats
  • Wrote PowerShell and Bash scripts for log collection and automation
  • Simulated alert triage — investigated events and documented findings
03
BloodhoundMimikatzCrackMapExecNmap
Penetration Testing Lab Exercises
Ongoing · Within Homelab
Used offensive security tools within the controlled homelab to practice real attack techniques — AD enumeration, credential testing, and network reconnaissance — in a safe, legal environment.
  • AD analysis and attack path mapping using Bloodhound + Neo4j
  • Credential extraction and lateral movement testing with Mimikatz and CME
  • Network reconnaissance and port scanning with Nmap
  • Documented all findings as simulated security reports
04
WPScanBurp SuiteWireshark
Web Application Security Labs
Coursework · Marymount University
Vulnerability assessments using WPScan and Burp Suite on web application targets, combined with network traffic analysis and formal written findings reports.
  • Full scan → analyze → report workflow on web app targets
  • Identified vulnerabilities and assessed severity and impact
  • Produced lab reports with screenshots, analysis, and risk summaries
  • Applied packet capture and network traffic interpretation
Resume

View & Download

Khavin Mahesh
📞 (571) 373-0486 ✉ khavin.tech@gmail.com in linkedin.com/in/khavinmahesh 🐙 github.com/Khavin-Mahesh
Professional Summary
Entry-level cybersecurity professional with hands-on experience in log analysis, security monitoring, and technical support through a homelab and freelance work. Skilled in troubleshooting systems, analyzing events, and working with tools such as Wireshark, Splunk, and Active Directory. Currently preparing for CompTIA Security+.
Education
Marymount University
Expected Spring 2026
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Minor in Cybersecurity
Arlington, VA
Northern Virginia Community College
May 2025
Associate of Science in Information Technology
Manassas, VA
Relevant Experience
Freelance IT Support Technician
2020 – Present
Self-Employed
  • Troubleshot hardware, software, and network issues across Windows and macOS systems.
  • Resolved system performance, software, and connectivity issues, including remote support via screen sharing.
Technology Research Analyst Intern
09/2025 – 12/2025
Marymount University · Arlington, VA
  • Assisted users with troubleshooting technical issues within CyberClinic projects.
  • Analyzed datasets and led training sessions on technical tools and security concepts.
Cybersecurity Student Research Assistant
03/2025 – 08/2025
Marymount University · Arlington, VA
  • Researched cybersecurity best practices and security risks affecting small businesses.
  • Assisted in developing documentation and materials to improve organizational security posture.
  • Communicated technical concepts to non-technical users through reports and presentations.
Community Outreach Coordinator
02/2025 – Present
Vision Vanguard Network · Arlington, VA
  • Collected, organized, and validated structured datasets tracking 200+ external stakeholders and engagement outcomes.
  • Developed standardized documentation and reporting workflows to improve operational accuracy and follow-up consistency.
Projects
Object Detection Software | Python, OpenCV, Raspberry Pi 3, YOLOv8, MobileNet
08/2025 – 12/2025
  • Built a Python-based computer vision pipeline on Raspberry Pi using OpenCV and YOLOv8 for real-time detection, optimizing performance for low-power hardware.
  • Evaluated detection accuracy across varying lighting conditions and environments, recording structured performance results.
  • Documented system setup, dependencies, testing procedures, and troubleshooting steps to ensure reproducibility.
Sys Admin / Cybersecurity Homelab | VMware, Windows Server, Kali Linux, Bash
06/2025 – Present
  • Configured and maintained Windows Server 2022 with Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policy to simulate enterprise infrastructure.
  • Analyzed system and network logs to identify suspicious activity and simulate security event monitoring.
  • Monitored network traffic using Wireshark to detect anomalies and investigate potential threats.
  • Simulated basic alert triage by investigating security events and documenting findings.
  • Developed PowerShell and Bash scripts for log collection, system configuration, and automation.
Technical Skills
Security: Log analysis, security event monitoring, phishing analysis, OSINT, Wireshark, Nmap, Nessus, OpenVAS, Metasploit, Splunk
Systems: Windows 10/11, macOS, Windows Server, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Group Policy, virtualization (VMware)
Tools: Jira, ClickUp, Trello, TCP/IP fundamentals
Scripting: Python, PowerShell, Bash, SQL
Khavin Mahesh
📞 (571) 373-0486 ✉ khavin.tech@gmail.com in linkedin.com/in/khavinmahesh 🐙 github.com/Khavin-Mahesh
Professional Summary
Entry-level IT Support Technician with hands-on experience troubleshooting hardware, software, and network issues across Windows and macOS systems. Proven ability to diagnose technical problems, support users, and communicate solutions effectively in fast-paced environments. Strong foundation in system administration and IT operations, with a focus on delivering reliable technical support. Currently preparing for CompTIA Security+.
Education
Marymount University
Expected Spring 2026
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Minor in Cybersecurity
Arlington, VA
Northern Virginia Community College
May 2025
Associate of Science in Information Technology
Manassas, VA
Relevant Experience
Freelance IT Support Technician
2020 – Present
Self-Employed
  • Troubleshot hardware, software, and network issues across Windows and macOS systems.
  • Resolved system performance issues, software errors, and connectivity problems for users.
  • Provided remote technical support using screen sharing and remote access tools (RDP, etc.).
  • Assisted users with password resets, account access, and basic system configurations.
  • Documented issues and solutions to improve troubleshooting efficiency.
Technology Research Analyst Intern
09/2025 – 12/2025
Marymount University · Arlington, VA
  • Troubleshot technical issues for users within CyberClinic projects.
  • Documented workflows and technical processes to improve usability.
  • Led training sessions on technical tools and systems.
Cybersecurity Student Research Assistant
03/2025 – 08/2025
Marymount University · Arlington, VA
  • Supported system setup and troubleshooting tasks in lab environments.
  • Created documentation to explain technical concepts to non-technical users.
Community Outreach Coordinator
02/2025 – Present
Vision Vanguard Network · Arlington, VA
  • Managed and validated structured datasets tracking 200+ stakeholders.
  • Developed documentation workflows to improve operational efficiency.
Projects
IT Homelab (System Administration) | VMware, Windows Server
06/2025 – Present
  • Configured Windows Server 2022 with Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policy.
  • Created and managed user accounts and permissions in a simulated enterprise environment.
  • Troubleshot system and network issues across Windows and Linux virtual machines.
Object Detection Software | Python, OpenCV, Raspberry Pi
08/2025 – 12/2025
  • Built a Python-based application using OpenCV and YOLOv8 for real-time detection.
  • Troubleshot system performance issues and optimized configurations.
Technical Skills
Operating Systems: Windows 10/11, macOS, Windows Server
IT Support: Troubleshooting (hardware/software/network), Active Directory, user accounts, password resets, remote support, ticketing systems
Systems/Networking: DNS, DHCP, Group Policy, TCP/IP, VMware
Tools: Microsoft 365, Jira, ClickUp, Trello, Wireshark
Scripting: PowerShell, Python, Bash, SQL
Contact

Let's Connect

I'm actively looking for opportunities in cybersecurity, IT support, SOC analysis, and system administration — ideally starting before or around graduation in May 2026.

I bring 5+ years of freelance IT experience, real hands-on lab environments, and a genuine passion for security. If you're hiring, mentoring, or want to talk about the field — I'd love to hear from you.

in
LinkedIn
linkedin.com/in/khavinmahesh
🐙
GitHub
github.com/Khavin-Mahesh
✉
Email
khavin.tech@gmail.com
📞
Phone
(571) 373-0486
Open to Opportunities
SOC AnalystOpen
IT Help Desk / SupportOpen
System AdministratorOpen
Penetration TesterLong-Term Goal
Short-Term
SOC / Help Desk / Sysadmin
Long-Term
Penetration Tester
View LinkedIn Profile