2026 Cybersecurity Graduate Achieves CCNA Certification
James Stevens 2026 Cybersecurity Graduate Earns CCNA Certification
On April 1, 2026, Andrew Melogy celebrated a significant milestone by successfully passing his Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam shortly after completing his studies.
Upon receiving the news, Melogy was initially overwhelmed with disbelief, spending several minutes processing the achievement.
Despite the low known pass rates for the CCNA, with many abandoning their efforts before completion, Melogy's dedication paid off. The certification assesses essential skills for managing sophisticated networks, including fundamental concepts, security principles, and automation techniques.
Reflecting on the exam's challenges, Melogy described the two-hour assessment—comprising multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and simulation tasks—as both demanding and enlightening. He emphasized the necessity of grasping core concepts over rote memorization, acknowledging the vastness of Cisco's command set.
His commitment to preparation spanned six to eight months, beginning during his sophomore year under the guidance of Professor Greg Sayadian. Initially exploring other credentials like CompTIA Network+, Melogy ultimately chose the CCNA path for its greater challenge.
Born in Columbia, SC, and raised in Greenville, Melogy's educational path included Winthrop University before finding his niche at Montreat College. The smaller, more intimate environment at Montreat allowed him to thrive socially and academically, fostering meaningful connections and a solid foundation in computer networking.
Melogy's passion for cybersecurity emerged through hands-on problem-solving, a skill nurtured by Montreat's supportive faculty. Their encouragement not only sparked his interest in network engineering but also equipped him with the confidence to pursue specialized knowledge.
While actively seeking employment opportunities, Melogy remains confident that his Montreat education, unwavering faith, and newly acquired CCNA credential will lead to professional success. He views integrity—especially in unseen circumstances—as integral to cybersecurity, aligning his career aspirations with ethical principles.
