Richard Basen recently graduated from Florida State in 2017 with a B.S. in Information Technology. Previously from Oviedo, Florida, he currently works in Atlanta as a Program Manager for AT&T.
Ricky manages the Technology Development Security and Compliance division at AT&T. He is responsible for monitoring the progress of web application vulnerability testing to prevent security threats to websites and internally and externally facing apps. “My team proactively tests applications to strengthen the security and prevent potential malicious attacks such as cross-site scripting and SQL injection.” As program manager, he also gathers data from the security scans and reports findings to executives and key stakeholders throughout the business.
Working for a technology giant has humbled Ricky into realizing how advanced we are as a society. “Considering we live in the information age, it is amazing to see how we capture, store, and use data for improving our lives.” He is looking forward to seeing how the IT industry continues to push the boundaries of other industries including medicine, finance and education.
To learn more about this tech-savvy alum, continue reading our Q&A with Ricky:
Who do you admire and why?
My parents – My dad and I have very similar personalities and goals. He is strong-willed and leads by example. My mom is a very generous and selfless woman. Both of them are incredible role models.
What Jeopardy category could you clear, no problem?
Music
Favorite Office Snack?
Candy – Twix
Best piece of advice you have ever received?
“It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you.”
How did your education prepare you for your career?
Florida State’s Information Technology program prepared me for my career by providing many leadership opportunities and real world examples in my classes. Planning and managing various projects, learning to use new technologies, and delivering presentations during my collegiate career shaped me to become a confident professional in the workplace.
Share a notable (funny, embarrassing, exciting) experience you’ve had at work:
During our office holiday party last December, we had a ugly sweater competition. Wearing my FSU sweater (which is not ugly in my opinion) I walked across the stage in front of my entire office and was quickly booed by all of the Alabama and Georgia fans that work in my office. Needless to say, I did not win the competition, but I wore my garnet and gold with pride.
Where do you look for inspiration?
Going hiking or listening to music
How do you handle work-life balance?
I started out working in the Technology Development Program at AT&T which provides the perfect opportunity for recent college graduates to starting a new career. It made it easy to meet new people when I first moved to Atlanta, because I was hired into a class of recent college graduates just like me. In the program I learned how to manage my work week while ensuring I made time to take time to relax and enjoy life outside of work. I started up a kickball team with my friends during the weekdays and I regularly attend local concerts, go hiking, or play golf.
What advice would you give yourself in college?
Never pass up an opportunity to meet people and push your comfort zone. Connect with other students, professors, and faculty as you never know who could be a great asset in your life down the road.
