#How to become a data analyst in school

[etherealhannie]

( oneshot ) ،، eternal admirer ،، ⌇ 원우

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،، even on the days i ain't right by your side , i'm keeping my promise that i will be wherever you are ،، .ᐟ 🦋

pairing .ᐟ shy!wonwoo × fem!reader genre .ᐟ office romance au , lifetime crush word count .ᐟ 3.1k song rec. .ᐟ wherever u r ─ umi , v

note .ᐟ my playlist got the best of me─it's one of my favourite masterpiece , hope u guys love it as much as i do !

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Wonwoo first noticed Y/N in primary school, when they were just children sitting in the same classroom. It was something small at first—maybe the way she focused during lessons or how her laughter was bright and genuine. He didn’t know why, but even back then, something about her presence stayed with him.

Through middle school, Wonwoo kept his distance, content with admiring her from afar. He wasn’t the kind of boy to chase someone’s attention. In fact, he often found himself tucked in corners of the classroom, quietly reading while the others played during recess. Y/N was popular—not in the loud or flashy way—but in the way everyone naturally gravitated toward her. She was kind, easygoing, and always surrounded by friends. Wonwoo’s heart quietly thrived in that space of unspoken affection, never daring to break the surface.

High school came and went. Y/N was the star student—good grades, captain of the debate team, and still as radiant as ever. Meanwhile, Wonwoo was in the background, still the quiet boy who excelled in his own way but never sought the limelight. He had accepted by then that his love for her was something that would likely never be returned. It was easier that way. They barely shared more than polite smiles, a handful of group projects, and casual greetings.

His heart, however, had a way of betraying his thoughts. No matter how much he tried to push it down, his feelings for Y/N only grew. The longing became a constant companion—a soft ache he carried silently, never acting on it. He told himself he was okay with just admiring her from the sidelines.

They ended up attending the same university. It was a coincidence that almost felt like fate, though Wonwoo never allowed himself to believe in something as whimsical as that. University was different—they shared classes again, the same building, and occasionally ran into each other at the campus café. Those run-ins were his favorite part of the week. Sometimes they exchanged a few words, just small talk, but it was enough to keep his quiet hope alive.

During their final year, there was a group assignment, and for the first time, Wonwoo found himself working closely with Y/N. It was the most interaction they’d ever had, and for once, he allowed himself to believe they were becoming friends. His heart soared every time she asked for his help or when she smiled and thanked him for something small.

Graduation came quickly after that. Wonwoo had prepared himself for a life where their paths would finally diverge. He’d never confessed his feelings, and he told himself it was for the best. She was going to move on to bigger, brighter things, and he’d be left to move on as well, as he always had.

But life had other plans.

Three months after graduation, Wonwoo found himself at a sleek new office, ready to start his first job as a data analyst. The office was large and modern, a corporate hub buzzing with young professionals. He’d only been there a week when he saw her—Y/N, walking through the glass doors as if it were completely normal that they’d end up in the same place once again. His heart skipped a beat, then two, as she caught sight of him, smiling warmly.

“Wonwoo! I didn’t know you’d be working here too,” she said, her eyes crinkling at the corners in that familiar way.

He froze for a moment, fumbling for words, before managing a soft, “Yeah, I started last week.”

From that day on, they crossed paths daily—at meetings, during lunch breaks, in the shared spaces of the office. And every time they did, Wonwoo’s heart fluttered with the same nervous energy as it had back in school. Yet, despite all the opportunities, he still couldn’t find the courage to tell her how he felt.

Then, one afternoon, a project landed on their desks. It required collaboration between departments, and to his utter shock, Wonwoo found himself paired with Y/N. They would be working closely for the next two weeks. His mind spun at the thought of spending so much time with her, but he played it cool, nodding in agreement as if his heart wasn’t racing a mile a minute.

The first meeting was nerve-wracking. Y/N sat beside him, their elbows almost touching, and all Wonwoo could focus on was the warmth radiating from her. She asked him questions about the project, listened intently to his suggestions, and for the first time, he felt like she truly saw him—not just as a classmate or colleague, but as someone important.

By the end of the project, they had spent more time together than ever before, and Wonwoo’s heart was in overdrive. Every moment felt surreal, like a dream he didn’t want to wake from. The day they submitted their final report, Y/N turned to him with a smile that nearly made his knees buckle.

“We make a pretty good team,” she said, lightly nudging his arm.

“Yeah,” he mumbled, feeling his face heat up. “We do.”

That evening, back at his shared apartment, Wonwoo couldn’t contain his excitement. His roommates were lounging in the living room when he burst in, practically glowing.

“You won’t believe what happened,” he blurted out, pacing back and forth.

Mingyu, sitting on the couch with a game controller in hand, raised an eyebrow. “What’s got you all worked up?”

Wonwoo could hardly stand still as he recounted every small detail—how they’d worked together, how close they’d sat, and how Y/N had smiled at him like that. His friends listened with amused grins, teasing him about his schoolboy crush.

“You’re so whipped,” Seungcheol teased, laughing.

Wonwoo didn’t care. He was giddy, like a teenager all over again. For the first time in years, he felt like maybe, just maybe, something could happen between them. The hope he’d kept buried for so long was starting to bloom, and though he didn’t know where things would lead, he was finally ready to see where this journey would take him.

For now, that smile was enough to keep his heart racing.

The next few days at work were a blur of nervous energy for Wonwoo. Every time he saw Y/N in the office, his heart would leap, and his mind would start racing with all the possibilities. He couldn’t shake the memory of their project, the casual touches, and the way she looked at him. Every moment replayed in his head, keeping him awake at night, wondering if she saw him the same way he saw her.

Despite the rush of excitement he felt inside, outwardly, he was still the same Wonwoo—quiet, reserved, and shy. He wanted to keep things normal, professional even, but his friends had other ideas.

“You’re really going to let this chance slip away?” Mingyu asked one night after work, tossing a pillow at him. “Dude, you’ve liked her since forever! Now you’re practically working together every day, and you’re just gonna stay quiet?”

Wonwoo sighed, sinking deeper into the couch. “It’s not that easy, Gyu. What if she doesn’t see me that way? I don’t want to ruin everything.”

Seungcheol, who had been scrolling through his phone, chimed in. “You don’t have to confess your love out of nowhere, man. Just… get closer to her. Be her friend. See where things go.”

“I don’t even know how to do that,” Wonwoo admitted, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. “I’ve been in love with her from a distance for so long. Actually being around her now feels like… I don’t know, like I’m going to mess it up.”

Mingyu rolled his eyes, but a grin tugged at the corner of his lips. “You’re overthinking this, as usual. Just talk to her. You work in the same office, it’s the perfect excuse.”

As much as Wonwoo hated to admit it, his friends were right. He couldn’t keep waiting for things to happen by chance. He needed to take a step forward. But how?

The opportunity presented itself the next morning.

Wonwoo was sitting at his desk, reviewing some reports, when Y/N approached him with a hesitant smile. “Hey, Wonwoo. Do you have a moment? I could really use your help with something.”

His heart skipped a beat, but he kept his expression calm. “Sure, what do you need?”

Y/N explained that she was working on a new proposal but had hit a roadblock with the data analysis. “I know you’re great with numbers, and I’m kind of struggling,” she admitted with a small laugh. “Do you think you could take a look?”

For a moment, Wonwoo couldn’t believe she was asking for his help again. His mind raced, but he nodded, trying to play it cool. “Yeah, I can take a look. Let’s go over it together.”

They ended up spending the next hour in one of the meeting rooms, poring over spreadsheets and brainstorming ideas. Wonwoo found himself relaxing as they worked, focusing more on the task at hand and less on the nervous energy buzzing inside him. Y/N was thoughtful and sharp, always open to his suggestions, and the way she engaged with him made his chest swell with a quiet pride.

As they wrapped up, Y/N turned to him with a grateful smile. “You’re seriously a lifesaver. I don’t know how I’d get through this without your help.”

Wonwoo’s face heated up, and he looked down at the table, a small smile tugging at his lips. “It’s nothing. You could’ve figured it out.”

She laughed softly. “I don’t know about that. But seriously, thank you. You’ve been great to work with.”

Before he could respond, their phones buzzed simultaneously—lunchtime. Y/N glanced at her watch and then back at him, hesitating for a second. “Hey, do you want to grab lunch together? It’s been a while since we’ve really talked outside of work.”

Wonwoo’s mind went blank. Lunch? With her? It wasn’t the first time they’d shared a meal, but it felt different now. This was just the two of them, and he didn’t want to overthink it. He swallowed hard and nodded. “Yeah, that sounds great.”

They ended up at a cozy little café near the office, sitting across from each other with steaming cups of coffee and sandwiches. It was the most casual setting they’d been in together in years, and for the first time, Wonwoo allowed himself to relax.

“So,” Y/N started, stirring her coffee absentmindedly, “how’s it been for you, working here? It’s kind of funny that we ended up in the same place after all these years.”

Wonwoo smiled softly. “Yeah, I didn’t expect it either. It’s been good. Different from school, but… in a good way.”

Y/N nodded. “Same here. I was nervous at first, but seeing familiar faces like yours makes it a lot easier.”

His heart flipped at the mention of him making things easier for her, but he tried to keep his cool. They talked more about work, shared memories from university, and slowly, Wonwoo realized how natural it felt being around her. She wasn’t just the girl he’d admired from afar anymore; she was someone he could talk to, laugh with, and maybe even get closer to.

That evening, back at the apartment, he couldn’t contain his excitement once again. His roommates were already waiting for the update as soon as he walked through the door.

“So? How’d it go?” Mingyu asked, leaning forward with a grin.

Wonwoo tried to keep his expression neutral, but the smile that broke through was unstoppable. “We had lunch together.”

Seungcheol sat up straighter. “Lunch? Just the two of you?”

Wonwoo nodded, the warmth spreading through him as he remembered their conversation. “Yeah. It was… it was nice. Really nice.”

Mingyu chuckled, shaking his head. “Look at you, getting all giddy over lunch. You’ve got it bad, man.”

“I know,” Wonwoo admitted, laughing softly. “But… I think I’m finally starting to see things move forward.”

And for the first time in years, that hope he’d held onto so tightly felt within reach.

As the days passed, the lunch with Y/N became a new routine. They started meeting up more often, sometimes in the office cafeteria, other times at the same cozy café nearby. It wasn’t anything special on the surface—just two colleagues grabbing a bite together—but to Wonwoo, it was everything. Every conversation, every shared laugh, every accidental brush of their hands felt like another step closer to something he had never let himself imagine before.

His roommates, of course, continued to tease him about it at every chance they got.

“So, any big developments?” Seungcheol asked one night, casually flipping through the channels on TV. “Did you hold hands yet?”

Wonwoo groaned, throwing a pillow at him from across the room. “No, we’re just… talking. It’s not like that.”

Mingyu, sprawled out on the couch, shot him a knowing look. “Not yet, maybe. But come on, man. You’re basically going on mini-dates every day. When are you going to make a move?”

“I’m not,” Wonwoo said quickly, though the idea of making a move had crossed his mind more times than he cared to admit. “We’re just friends. She probably doesn’t even see me that way.”

Seungcheol snorted. “You’re dense, dude. She’s spending all this time with you for a reason. No one’s that nice unless they want to be around you.”

Wonwoo frowned, unsure of what to believe. The thought that Y/N might feel something for him seemed too good to be true. He didn’t want to get his hopes up, only to have them crushed. But then again, the way she smiled at him, the way her eyes lingered just a little longer than necessary—it made him wonder. Maybe… just maybe…

The next week, everything changed.

They were working late one evening, finishing up a project that was due the next day. The office was quiet, most of the employees already gone, and it was just the two of them in the meeting room, typing away on their laptops. Wonwoo was focused on the task at hand, trying to wrap things up as quickly as possible, when Y/N suddenly broke the silence.

“Wonwoo, can I ask you something?”

His fingers paused on the keyboard, and he looked up to find her staring at him with an expression he couldn’t quite read. “Sure. What’s up?”

She hesitated for a moment, biting her lip like she was gathering her thoughts. “Do you… ever think about what things could’ve been like if we’d been closer back in school? Like, if we’d been better friends or… something more?”

Wonwoo’s heart slammed in his chest. Her words were casual, almost uncertain, but there was a vulnerability in them that made his pulse race. He didn’t know how to respond—didn’t know what she was really asking—but he couldn’t lie to her. Not now.

“I’ve thought about it a lot,” he admitted softly, his voice barely above a whisper. “Probably more than I should.”

Y/N’s eyes softened, and she leaned back in her chair, exhaling a small laugh. “I always wondered about you, you know. You were so quiet, so reserved. But you were always… there. I noticed.”

Wonwoo blinked in surprise. “You did?”

“Of course I did,” she said, smiling. “I mean, you were always one of the smartest in the class, but you never tried to stand out. I thought that was interesting. You seemed… different.”

He swallowed hard, trying to process her words. All this time, he thought he’d been invisible to her, just a background character in her life. But now, sitting here with her, he realized that she’d been paying attention too.

“I always wanted to get to know you better,” Y/N continued, her voice quiet but sincere. “But I didn’t know how. You were so hard to approach.”

Wonwoo felt a lump form in his throat. He’d been so afraid of getting close to her, so afraid of rejection, that he never gave her a chance to know him. And now, here they were, years later, finally sitting across from each other, finally talking about the things that had been left unsaid for so long.

“I was… scared,” Wonwoo admitted, his voice trembling slightly. “I didn’t think you’d ever be interested in someone like me.”

Y/N tilted her head, her gaze softening even more. “Why would you think that?”

He laughed nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. “You were always so… perfect. Smart, popular, surrounded by people. I didn’t think I had a chance.”

Y/N shook her head, smiling gently. “You’ve always had a chance, Wonwoo.”

The words hit him like a tidal wave, and he felt his heart swell with emotion. He didn’t know what to say, didn’t know how to respond to something he’d dreamed of hearing for so long. But before he could find the words, Y/N reached across the table, her fingers brushing lightly against his.

“I know we’ve never been close,” she said softly, her eyes searching his. “But I’d like to change that. If you’re open to it.”

Wonwoo stared at her, his mind spinning. Was this really happening? Was she really giving him the chance he’d always wanted?

“I’d like that too,” he finally whispered, his voice thick with emotion.

Y/N’s smile widened, and for the first time, Wonwoo felt like maybe—just maybe—everything he’d hoped for was within reach. They sat there for a few moments in silence, the warmth of her hand lingering on his, and for the first time in years, Wonwoo allowed himself to believe in the possibility of something more.

That night, when he returned to the apartment, his friends didn’t even need to ask.

“You’re smiling like an idiot,” Mingyu teased, grinning from ear to ear. “What happened?”

Wonwoo dropped onto the couch, unable to stop the smile from spreading across his face. “We talked. Really talked.”

Seungcheol raised an eyebrow. “And?”

“And…” Wonwoo paused, still trying to wrap his head around it all. “She said I’ve always had a chance.”

The room went silent for a moment, and then Mingyu let out a loud whoop, throwing a pillow at him. “Finally! Took you long enough!”

Seungcheol laughed, clapping him on the back. “Looks like things are finally falling into place.”

Wonwoo couldn’t help but laugh along with them, his heart feeling lighter than it had in years. For the first time, he felt like the walls he’d built around his heart were starting to come down, and with Y/N on the other side, maybe—just maybe—his story was only just beginning.

[tillichan]

⋆.˚✮ Your life in Kuroko's Basketball for @frostfall-matches ✮˚.⋆

When you just got into Kaijou High School you totally weren't expecting to become a basketball team manager. Gymnastics club, painting club, going-home club at least. So how did it all go like this for you? Well, it happened to occur during your first day of new school. You slowly walked across the school yard trying to find the club stand you were interested in. Just to be caught and stuck between two very active club presidents who aggressively wanted you to join their clubs. "She will join a gymnastics club!", yelled one of them. "I know about her past successes! With her our team will win the national tournament!" "No! She will join painting club! Her paintings are something else!", answered a president of the painting club stamping their foot. "No way you'll take her with you!" Listening to their bickering you slowly started realizing that you absolutely didn't want to join these clubs. So without much thought you dangled a first available leaflet you found in your pocket in front of them and told them that you already joined this club. The faces of the presidents of painting and gymnastics clubs fell. And you were about to slip away from them, but your real trouble was just beginning. Because they were not the one who noticed the leaflet you held in your hands. In a moment, you were encircled by the group of boys who took you to their stand. To the stand of the male basketball team to be exact. And so you became a manager of Kaijou High Basketball team. Because why not? It sounded fun and not tight. You were sure that it doesn't take a lot of time, which means that more time is available for your hobbies. A nice bonus was that you tried something new. But you were only half-right. Somehow you enjoyed your manager duties so much so it started taking all your time and occupying all your thoughts. Not to mention that Kaijou team were such a sweethearts who were absolutely whipped for you, their precious manager. What started as just a whim turned into your favorite thing. You became not only a manager who brings the snacks and cheers for the team, but also a data analyst who analyses the opponents and a real sport manager who does team business.

Profile: Kaijou High Male Basketball Team Manager.

⋙ Training Capability ███████▒▒▒ 7/10

⋙ Analytical Skill █████████▒ 9/10

⋙ Organizing Skill ██████████ 10/10

⋙ Leadership █████▒▒▒▒▒ 5/10

⋙ Charisma ██████████ 10/10

⋙ Cooking ███████▒▒▒ 7/10

At first your main manager duties were simple. You prepared snacks like honey and lemon and drinks for the team, filled out some documents and took care of their injuries. But as soon as you hooked on being manger and met some annoying rivals, you started working on your analytical skill. You wanted to help your team to win national tournaments, so you helped them with organizing and planning practices, matches and training camps.

Data analyzing and collecting is your main skill that helped your team more than once. You have an impressive base of player's data and you're able to predict a game relying on data you have, even during the play. Since your mind stays cold even under the pressure you're always there to calm down your team whenever they act on their emotions. You're their shield no matter how it sounds, because there are so many mean players who humiliate team instead of playing basketball. But with you by their side they're no longer a problem.

Since you started doing this only recently, you still not as good at it as your rivals, but all them agree that it does not take long for you to catch them up. The way you turn from a chill relaxed girl into a monster of analyzing during the match is something that scares them. Even looking at you makes their skin crawl. Your teasing and combative personality commands respect and admiration.

Romantic Matchup: Kise Ryouta

The first time you and Ryouta met was when you two just joined Kaijou Basketball Club. It happened at the welcoming ceremony, but even then the both of you were sure that you won't find common ground. Never. You not only mocked Ryouta during his speech thereby earning the trust and respect of the whole Kaijou team and hatred of his fangirls. Moreover, you immediately brought order and pulled all screaming girls out of the door. Kasamatsu was ready to cry of overwhelming gratitude and could swear that he fell in love with you right at that moment. He changed his mind about his crush when he got to know you better though. But Ryouta was annoyed by your behavior. You made him a laughingstock, but, oh, he had to admit that he also found cool the way you were so relaxed and confident. He grinned and approached you trying to take a revenge by mocking you back. Just to suffer a heavy defeat. Was Ryouta upset about it? Maybe, a little bit. But you also sparked interest in him since you seemed uninterested in Ryouta at all that made your future interaction more comfortable. Mindful of his failure during the welcoming ceremony, Ryouta was in no hurry to show his respect by adding "-cchi" to your name, not to mention that you kept teasing and mocking him and his fangirls like there was no tomorrow. But the truth was Ryouta already admired you a lot. He had a lot of fun trying to mock you back. The way you were such a respectful manager who outsmarted Momoi more than once didn't help too. Ryouta started developing feelings for you. What kind of feelings? Well, he wished that it was just a respect and admiration like how he respected Momoi, but of course he just deceived himself. Because he had a big and fat crush on you and did his best to deny it like an elementary schooler. And if not for his annoying fangirls, who knows when the two of you will become a couple. One day you and Ryouta hung out together in the schoolyard while talking about basketball and having lunch. And as usual a crowd of his fans surrounded you asking for an autograph. They were afraid of you though, but there still were some brave girls who tried to approach their idol. What was not expected, however, was Ryouta wrapped his arm around your shoulder possessively pulling you closer. "Thank you for your attention, but don't disturb out date, please", said him drawing gasps from you and the girl in front of him. He smiled but his eyes were cold. The girl apologized and ran away and so you and Ryouta became a fake couple. The rumor quickly spread, even his Teiko friends found out about your relationship and sent you some congratulations. Kaijou team did not stand aside from it. They grabbed Ryouta and started asking about you two.

Moriyama: Kise, you bastard, how could you take our precious manager! I will never forgive you! You obviously knew about my feelings for her! Hayakawa: I'M SO HAPPY FOR YOU, KISE!!! PLEASE, TAKE CARE OF HER!!! Kobori: Stay calm, Hayakawa. But I'm happy for you too, Kise. You was so in love with her and finally won her over. Congratulations. Kise: But we are no- Kasamatsu: Stop gossiping and go to practice!

Becoming a fake couple simplified your life a little, since the girls stopped their attempts to catch Ryouta's attention. And they knew right that it's dangerous to deal with you so they didn't annoy you too. But the both of you knew that your feelings for each other were not a fake, it was real. You and Ryouta were in love with each other but your true feelings were obscured by a mask of mutual help. Ryouta was the first who confessed. It happened after the game that Kaijou team lost. Ryouta was in tears, he even couldn't stand properly. And even though you teased him again, but in such a loving manner as you wiped his tears away that made Ryouta feel better and... blush. Yes, it affected and flustered him so much. He looked down, somehow he could not bring himself to look at your eyes. "I like you", his voice was almost a whisper meant for you, but so sincere.

• You and Ryouta are this couple who enjoys teasing each other. But even though he can be... not really a nice guy when it comes to others, but when it comes to you, ugh, he is softie who can't find a proper respond to mock you back. It makes Kaijou team look at you two as at comedy duo, they adore you two very much and want to protect your couple though. • You beat him in video games and proud of it! Ryouta tries to copy your moves to win though so maybe one day he will surpass you, who knows. In respond he asks you for playing basketball and beats you every time. Obviously. But you slowly but surely improve your basketball skills so you beat Riko and Momoi when the three of you join some matches between your friends. • Ryouta respects you the most! You're such a cool person in his eyes, the coolest person in the world! His love stems from the pure adoration he has for you. The way his gaze softens every time he looks at you or the way he acts like a lovesick puppy around you are proof of this. • The both of you are independent and value each others personal space. And it makes your relationship very healthy and strong. You don't bother Ryouta and don't cling to him whenever he has his own business, and he gives you some self space whenever you need it. But despite this, the both of you are obviously in love with each other and shower each other with love and affection. • Ryouta is yapper and you are listener. But he is absolutely fine with listening to you back! He values that you see him, just Kise Ryouta who wants to play basketball, not a popular model. This is something he loves about you the most. • Most of the time you and Ryouta are on the same page. You woke up and think that you're too busy to go on a date? You already received a message from Ryouta, he has a pert-time job today so he can't meet you. You think that you want to go traveling? Good news! Ryouta received a free trip to the hot springs and asks you if you'd like to join him. You dislike spiders? It's fine, Ryouta would kill them all for you, but deal with the worms instead please. • Your favorite way to spend time together is you both staying home and enjoying playing video games, discussing basketball, baking, painting (you always tease Ryouta because he sucks at painting, but he doesn't mind), cuddling, doing skin care, watching anime or movies or go out and do a lot of exciting activities, be it amusement park or traveling you just enjoy each others presence.

Ship Tropes

• fake lovers to real lovers • flirty menace (you) x pretend to be your menace but fails (him) • bickering idiots

Relationships

Kaijou High Team adores you very much. Each of them. And it took not a long time for them to warm up to you. To be exact, they all have been actually in love with you since the welcoming ceremony. The way you dealt with Kise, mocked him and wasn't interested in him at all? Congratulations, you just got a bunch of simps who respect you very much. You can't imagine how much Ryouta annoyed them, especially at first, when he just joined the club. But you... You cut this overconfident player and became their cool and responsible manager. You know, they literally worship you and each of them have a tiny crush on you. Kasamatsu finds very cool the way you can keep Kise in line. To be honest, he was in love with you, but slowly these feelings turned to firm friendship, founded on mutual esteem. He enjoys spending time with you discussing basketball or teaching you guitar. You are a powerful captain x manager unit. And you also are the only girl he feels comfortable with. Moriyama flirts with you as if there is no tomorrow. And this is the reason why the whole team beats him every day because no one can flirt with their precious manager. The fact that you started dating Ryouta shocked him and the whole team though, but they still support your relationship a lot, because, firstly, Ryouta's fangirls afraid of you, so they stopped annoy the team and, secondly, they all were aware of your mutual feelings, they see clearly that you are so in love with each other and this's true feelings. But rest assured, they'd beat Kise if he'll hurt you one day, they are more than ready to protect their precious manager.

Aomine Daiki is your best friend, your relationship did not begin well though. The two of you met for the first time during the match between Too and Kaijou, of course you two became more rivals than friends. Daiki was really surprised the way you predicted his movements and helped Kise and your team. Kaijou almost won, Daiki even entered the Zone because he couldn't win without it. Slowly but surely you and Daiki became friends because you two started seeing each other off the matches. Daiki enjoys your keen mind and a sharp tongue. The way you likes basketball too and know a lot about it attracts him even more. Every time you and Daiki meet each other you two usually team up to tease people around you, taste and eat something delicious, talk about basketball, anime, manga, video games or laze around. He still doesn't understand why you chose Kise of all people and teases you about it every day.

Momoi Satsuki is your main rival, but it seems like only Satsuki thinks so. But how else? After all, you're such a smart cookie, some more and you will surpass her. The way you're so sassy and combative annoys Satsuki very much. And Daiki who always joins you whenever you tease her about something doesn't help at all. But Satsuki has to admit that she respects you. And as soon as you and her banded together to defeat Jabberwock, you and Satsuki got closer and became friends too. She likes your smartness and that the two of you are so different, but still have a lot in common. Satsuki likes talking to you about love and relationship, especially about Kuroko. But she also wants to listen to the latest gossip about your relationship with Ryouta or complain to Aomine. When you and Satsuki, team of the most responsible managers, are together, your team is destined to win.

Murasakibara Atsushi is one more good friend of yours. The reason why the two of you are not as close as you and Aomine for example because Atsushi lives far away from you. So the two of you meet only during the tournaments, friendly matches or whenever Atsushi comes to buy limited sweets. Since Kaijou has never played against Yousen, you and Atsushi met for the first time when you helped Vorpal Swords team. You enjoyed teasing Atsushi but also shared with him some homemade sweets earning respect from this overgrown baby. He likes the way you're so calm and relaxed, he comes to you during a short breaks to ask you for some snacks (he's well aware that you're only person among the managers who gives a normal food instead of poison) or to rest his head on your laps or shoulder. When the two of you hang out together, you usually have a lazy days or take a gastronomic tour, tasting food, snacks, sweets and everything you two want.

Hanamiya Makoto has a crush on you. He was sure that only silly and naive girls can attract his attention. Just to end up falling for cool and sassy manager of Kaijou High. Your relationship started when you beat him at the online video game. Then he met you at an arcade and you bet him again. Then he met you during the friendly match between Kaijou and Kirisaki Daichi and your brilliant tactic outsmarted his one. You even did not leave a chance for him to hurt your precious players. And when Makoto tried to mock you and your team? You just put to shame him leaving Makoto angry and... infatuated. Now he even can't understand what he wants the most to crush you or to press you against the wall and kiss until you lose your breath. Oh, it's crazy.

[gamesetattach]

Night Owl

Jannik Sinner x Reader Late nights and no sleep is basically reader's whole thing, and it's not the most sustainable. Jannik befriends her and helps, though he becomes a bit more than a nap buddy if you know what I mean

Jannik Sinner was used to the quiet hum of hotel lobbies late at night. They were places of calm after the chaos of matches, where he could collect his thoughts or read a book while waiting for jetlag to pass. But lately, the lobbies had taken on a new sort of charm, thanks to you.

You were a sports analyst traveling with the ATP Tour for ESPN, constantly combing through match plays and outcomes to produce up to date statistics. Your work hours were unconventional, and your insomnia meant that while most of the world slept, you were often perched at a corner table in the lobby, your laptop glowing as you finalized edits or compile data. It had become a running joke among the players. Early risers like Casper Rudd and Stefanos Tsitsipas would tease you as they passed by for their morning workouts, catching you on your way back to your room to try and sleep as they started another day.

"Still awake?" someone would always ask, and your answer was always the same: "Still working."

Jannik had been introduced to you through his team during a content shoot early in the season. At first, he hadn’t thought much of it—just another professional face among the sea of tournament staff. But then he started noticing you, always at your table, headphones on, a small pile of snacks beside your laptop as you worked through the night. One evening, curiosity got the better of him, and he wandered over to your table, a cup of tea in hand.

“You’re still here,” he said, his voice low so as not to startle you.

You looked up, surprised to see him of all people. “Still working,” you replied with your typical line and a grin. “What about you? Couldn’t sleep?”

He shrugged, pulling out the chair across from you. “Something like that.”

That was how it started. Jannik would occasionally join you in the lobby, the two of you talking in between your work and his sessions. It was never anything too personal at first—discussions about matches, travel schedules, and, once, a heated debate about the best flavor of potato chips. But over time, the conversations deepened. He told you about his family back in Italy, how he missed skiing but loved the life tennis had given him. You shared stories of your own, of late nights in design school and the strange but wonderful world of sports media.

One day, as you were furiously working to meet a deadline for the next days broadcast in the tournament facility's lounge, Jannik walked in, already in sweatpants and a hoodie. His match had been delayed due to rain, and he was waiting for the courts to dry.

“You look like you need a break,” he said, setting down his tea.

“I can’t,” you replied, barely glancing up. “I have to finish this before the morning meeting.”

He leaned against the back of the chair, watching you for a moment. “You know,” he said casually, “you could nap. Just for a bit.”

You snorted. “Nap? Where? Here? ”

He gestured to the couch across from your table. “Right there. I’m going to nap anyway. You might as well join me.”

You stared at him, trying to figure out if he was joking. The slight smirk on his face told you he was… sort of.

“You’re serious?”

He shrugged. “Why not? You look like you haven’t slept in a week.”

You hesitated, then shrugged. “Fine. But if I snore, that stays between us.”

“Deal,” he said, grinning as he stretched out on the couch.

"And if I drool, look the other way." You added as you shut you saved your spreadsheets and shut your laptop, and he only laughed and shook his head in response.

You curled up on the adjacent coach, your hoodie pulled tightly around you. To your surprise, the moment you closed your eyes, your body seemed to melt into the stiff cushions. For the first time in weeks, you let yourself be completely at ease. The distant sound of Jannik’s steady breathing lulled you into a deep, dreamless sleep.

When you woke, it was to the sound of his coach’s voice, gently calling Jannik to get ready. You sat up groggily, blinking at the sun that had streamed in while you were asleep.

“Good nap?” Jannik asked, his hair slightly tousled.

“Honestly, yes,” you admitted. “I think that might've been the best sleep I’ve had in weeks.”

“Told you it would help," he smiled, "We can do it again sometime.”

---

Later that evening, after Jannik’s match—a hard-fought three-set win—you ran into him near the player lounge. He was still flushed from the adrenaline, his towel slung over his shoulder.

“That was some good tennis,” you said, shaking his hand once.

“Thanks,” he replied, his eyes crinkling as he smiled. “Feeling rested now?”

You laughed. “Still can’t believe I actually fell asleep in the lounge. But yeah, I’m feeling a lot better.”

He hesitated for a second, and then said, “You know, if you ever need a break, you can… you know? Find me. I’m known for my naps, I am very good at this.”

It was such a simple, silly offer, but something about the way he said it made your face warm. “I’ll keep that in mind,” you said softly.

And you did.

---

You cashed in that offer of his fairly quickly and it soon evolved to become part of your budding relationship with him, though your many, joint naps with Jannik on separate couches quickly transitioned to most nights being in spent in his room, in his bed.

Nights in hotels had taken on a new rhythm for you. What had once been solitary—you, hunched over your laptop in the hotel lobby, headphones on and snacks by your side—was now a shared routine. Instead of the empty glow of your screen, it was Jannik’s quiet presence in the darkness of his room, the way his breathing evened out as he drifted off, and the way his arm would instinctively find your waist in the middle of the night. For the first time in years, you were sleeping—really sleeping—more nights than not.

It didn’t take long for people on the tour to notice your absence from the lobby. Gael Monfils had always teasingly called you the tour's very own "night owl" and forever referred to any lobby as your "nest". Other players had picked up on the nickname. But now, the others on the tour who also, often stayed up found the lobby quieter without you. When they asked where you’d gone, you shrugged it off, saying you’d finally found a way to adjust to the varying time zones.

Jannik found the speculation especially funny. One morning, as you walked to grab breakfast with him, Matteo Berrettini sidled up to you both, grinning mischievously.

“You’re hiding something,” he said to you, wagging a finger. “You’re not perched in the lobby as often anymore. Something must be keeping you… busy.”

You rolled your eyes, but Jannik smirked behind him, biting back a laugh. “Maybe I just finally learned how to sleep,” you said, your tone perfectly even as Jannik continued to be humored by the confrontation.

“Hmm. Maybe..." Matteo squinted at you, looking at Jannik in fake exasperation as though the two of them were in on this interrogation against you together. "But you mean to tell me after all these years, you learned to sleep overnight? Yeah, right."

"Yeah, right.” Jannik parroted, playing along and getting way too much amusement from Matteo's friendly, but oblivious confrontation.

"I’ll figure it out, I swear.” And then he nudged Jannik, and whispered to him for you to hear. "I have a feeling that something might be a someone, if you know what I mean."

"Oh yeah?" Jannik whispered back conspiratorially, but his eyes were locked with yours and he was smirking over at you.

After Matteo said his goodbyes and walked away, you swatted at Jannik your elbow. “You’re enjoying this too much.”

“It’s harmless,” he said, still smiling. “Besides, they’ll never guess.”

---

The growing closeness between you and Jannik, and the comfort you found in each other—the comfort you gave eachother—continued to be undefined. You spent most nights together, had become each other’s confidants, and shared moments before and between sleep that felt impossibly intimate. But you hadn’t had any conversations about what the two of you were to each other, and you told yourself it was for the best. Jannik’s life was demanding, and yours wasn’t much different. Assuming anything more felt dangerous, like tempting fate.

That week, the tour brought you to one of the most anticipated tournaments of the season. Jannik was slated to play a match against one of the tour’s veterans, one of the few players of the season people felt he wasn’t guaranteed to beat. The pressure was palpable, and you felt it radiating off him, even with how well he tried to hide it.

And that same week, the first time in months, your insomnia returned with a vengeance. Whether it was the stress of the tournament or the weight of your buried feelings, you couldn’t say. But instead of turning to Jannik, you avoided him. You told yourself it was better this way. He needed his rest, his focus. You didn’t want to burden him with your sleeplessness.

During the days, you kept your distance, avoiding his searching glances and brushing off his questions when he passed by. “Just busy with work,” you’d say, offering a forced smile. At night, you retreated to empty corners of the hotel, working until your eyes burned and your head ached, ignoring his texts asking you to come over.

By the night before his big match, you were a wreck. Your skin dull, your eyes hollow. You’d set up camp in a quiet lounge near the hotel’s back entrance, hoping no one would find you. But Jannik wasn’t so easily deterred.

---

“Have you seen her?” Jannik asked, stopping one of the players as they passed through the lobby.

“Not tonight,” they said. “She’s been harder to find lately.”

Jannik frowned, his worry mounting. He asked a few more people, piecing together vague sightings until he finally found you, hunched over your laptop in a dimly lit lounge. The sight of you made his chest tighten. You looked exhausted, barely holding yourself upright.

“Hey,” he said softly, stepping into the room.

You startled, looking up at him with wide eyes. “Jannik. What are you doing here?”

“Looking for you,” he said simply. He walked closer, his gaze searching your face as he ran his thumb over the swell of your cheek. “You don’t look too good. How long have you been like this?”

“I’m fine,” you said quickly, forcing a smile. “Just… a rough week.”

“Hey, look at me,” he said, his voice gentle but firm.

You hesitated, your eyes darting away, but eventually, you met his gaze. The concern in his expression undid you. Tears welled up, and you quickly blinked them away.

“I didn’t want to bother you,” you said, your voice breaking. “You have a huge match tomorrow. You don’t need to deal with this... with me.”

He stepped closer, his hands resting on your shoulders. “Come with me,” he said. It wasn’t a question.

Too tired to argue, you let him guide you back to his room. The walk was quiet, your tears spilling over as the weight of the week pressed down on you. As soon as the door closed behind you, you turned to him.

“I’m sorry,” you whispered. “You never signed up for this. For me being… like this. I didn’t want to mess up your match.”

Jannik cupped your face, his thumbs brushing away your tears. “Stop,” he said, his voice steady. “You’re not a burden. And for the record, I’d sign up for this a hundred times over, because I care about you.”

Your breath hitched, and he continued. “And I can handle myself on the court. What I can’t accept is seeing you like this and doing nothing.”

You nodded, tears streaming freely now. He pulled you into his arms, holding you tightly as your exhaustion finally caught up with you.

---

That night, you slept more than you had in the past five days combined. Jannik stayed beside you, his presence always grounding you in a way nothing else could. When you woke the next morning, he was already getting ready for the match, moving quietly so as not to disturb you.

“Hey,” you said rubbing at your eyes as you sat up.

He turned, smiling when he saw you. “Morning. How are you feeling?”

“Better,” you admitted. “Thanks to you.”

He walked over, pressing a kiss to your forehead. “Good. Rest more if you need to. I’ll see you after the match.”

As he left, you felt a warmth bloom in your chest, the kind that came from knowing someone cared—from feeling truly, and unconditionally cared for.

You were so glad you took that offer.

---

I hate jet lag and alarms. Also my fatal flaw is that I'm really good at sleeping hard, but am terrible at getting to sleep and even worse at waking up. Which I guess is like 3 fatal flaws...I'm so cooked...

In uni, I used to pull all nighters if I had something important in the morning just because I couldn't trust myself to wake up for it. Only a few months out in the real world but I think I'll prob spending the rest of my life working off college, sleep debt included.

And scene. Anyways, wishing you all sweet dreams and love and kisses xx

[laughhardrunfastbekindsblog]

The Bad Batch with Modern-day Earth Careers

(Note: I have a TON of headcanons about the Bad Batch's hobbies and volunteer work. This post is specifically about what their day jobs/careers might be if they lived on Earth - I'd love to read your ideas too!!!)

✨ Hunter: what with his excellent leadership skills, tracking/observational skills, and strong protective streak, I can't help but peg Hunter as someone leading a search and rescue team.

Alternative: takes a 9-to-5 managerial job while Omega is growing up so he can be home with her more consistently and more often. (His leadership skills are too good for any job to overlook, hence the management position. Naturally he's the best manager any of his colleagues have ever worked under.)

✨ Tech: his love for knowledge/data and his teaching skills would make him an excellent researcher/professor.

Alternative: mechanical engineer (we've all seen how great Tech is at creating devices).

✨ Echo: computer analyst is his day job, but he's also a major activist and this is where his true passion lies.

Alternative: investigative journalist (Echo strikes me as the kind of person who has superb skills writing reports and this would also provide him opportunities to help people by uncovering corruption and intrigue).

✨ Wrecker: literally anything involving physical labor, since he likes to stay active. My first thought is construction work as long as he can avoid the tasks involving heights.

Alternative: athletic coach, primarily football. He does high school coaching for the salary but also loves volunteering as a Little League coach too.

✨ Crosshair: I can't help but picture him working in law enforcement, definitely prefers to be out in the field rather than a desk job.

Alternative: wildlife photographer (I wouldn't describe Crosshair as having much patience in general but he definitely has the specific strain of patience that would help with this kind of work, in addition to keen eyesight and attention to detail).

✨ Omega: with her medical background and deep empathy, she would make a fantastic doctor.

Alternative: pilot (I might be cheating a little here since she becomes a pilot in the show, but Omega does have a strong sense of adventure and she seems interested in flying from the get-go).

[sketchp00ch]

Revamp on Miss Tuesday in the BTAS/TNBA Style

I basically wanted to try out how my interpretation of Miss Tuesday (or Ariadne Isychía as I’ve named her) would look and fit into both the BTAS and TNBA Universe.

I love both the statuesque style for some of the female characters in BTAS (Selina Kyle and Andrea Beaumont for ex.) and the Pin-Up style Bruce Timm did for TNBA, Justice League, Superman, and Batman Beyond!

So I wanted to practice both styles and incorporate it to Ariadne.

(I also made a new character sheet for her in my own art style! I made something similar to this chart a while back but I wasn’t happy with it so here we are! Especially now that I’m really liking how her hair looks now than before LOL )

MORE ABOUT HER BELOW ⬇️

QUICK DISCLAIMER: As I've stated before, this is a complete reinterpretation of Miss Tuesday and not from the original/canon character of her from Batman: The Audio Adventures

(This interpretation of her is practically an OC at this point as she’s become a completely different character who just has the “Miss Tuesday” alias/title)

ANYWAYS

My MT’s personality, background, and appearance are all mostly the opposite of her canon self in Batman: The Audio Adventures:

Tuesday’s relationship with Riddler in case anyone was curious- is strictly platonic, they’re pretty much besties for life and death, though in all seriousness they still have a professional relationship and view each other as intellectual equals who highly respect one another

Ariadne Isychía, or just Ari, is the full name I gave to this Miss Tuesday

As how she got the alias of “Miss Tuesday” is short but funny; so basically Edward asked her what day she was born in and in true Ari fashion, she responds with- “I was born on a Tuesday, specifically around 3:37am in Greek time, or 8:37pm Eastern Standard Time, sir.”, Edward smiled and said, “Perfect! Miss Tuesday it is!”

I gave her the name “Ariadne” because I wanted give a reference and nod to both Greek mythology (Ariadne was the Cretan Princess who helped Theseus defeat the Minotaur in the Labyrinth using her golden thread and later became the minor goddess of mazes and puzzles after marrying Dionysus) and Riddler’s BTAS debut episode: “If You’re So Smart, Why Aren’t You Rich?” (Where he created a game based off of the same legend called “Riddle of The Minotaur”)

Ari is a burnt out 36-year old former child prodigy with lower-needs Autism, and high functioning OCD

She was born in Athens, Greece but was raised in the U.S. (Gotham City to be more specific)

She graduated high school at the age of 12 and from Gotham University at 16 with a degree in Data Analytics and Cybersecurity

Before working for The Riddler, Ari was once a criminal analyst for the GCPD due to her father being a well respected officer at the time

Despite having a stable job at the time and a supportive father, she was beyond under stimulated with just doing the basics of hacking and analyzing to where she didn’t feel challenged enough nor was she really respected in the department either

So by the time Ari’s father retired and moved back to Athens, she decided to quit the GCPD and made her way to locate and track down Edward (no matter how much he tried to delete all of his information, Ari always found a way because she’s that smart and that good at her job), and managed to convince him to hire her as his assistant

Edward was both baffled and impressed at how talented she was in terms of cybersecurity and how she managed to recover ALL of his deleted information in less than a week that he hired her on the spot

Ari has the same type of dryness and nonchalance that the original Miss Tuesday from BTAA does, the difference is she isn’t always aware that when she’s being slightly apathetic or too blunt and doesn’t mean to be like that (social unawareness be like that sometimes)

Plus she’s more respectful towards Edward and refers to him as either “Mr. Nygma” or simply “Sir” instead of just calling him “Eddie” like in BTAA

Ari respects Edward so much that even though she knows she’s essentially smarter than him, she dims it down just to not hurt his ego

She has a fondness for Owls, she just thinks they’re neat. Edward and the other Rouges like to point that out to her mid-banter as they sometimes refer to her as “Owlet” or “Night Owl” since she has a tendency to stay up very late at night on the computer, and sometimes stares at people for way too long without blinking (she’s not always aware of it until Edward would tap her shoulder and asks her to knock it off, she can’t help it. It’s the ‘tism…)

[little-cereal-draws]

Dashton human/single dad au

The Octonauts are a small environmental group that's part of a larger organization. Professor Inkling founded them and is their boss/connection to the larger parent organization (he used to work there). He stays in the office doing emails and budgets and stuff while some of the others go out into the field. Barnacles, Kwazii, and Peso are the main expedition team, with others tagging along now and then. They get samples, do animal rescues, and place trackers/monitoring equipment for the people back at homebase. Shellington is the resident biologist, Dashi is the data analyst, and Tweak is the engineer. Shellington and Dashi share a lab, but Tweak has her own space for all her machinery.

Shellington becomes an uncle and is absolutely enamored with Peri. After months of helping Pearl, and contracting a bad case of baby fever, he decides to get involved with the local Foster Care System. He sees it as a test to see if he does want to adopt.

Enter The Vegimals. They are octuplets that were left at orphanage when their parents realized just how much time and money eight kids was going to cost. Shellington was expecting one or two kids, but the social worker explains to him that he was one of the only people who said they were fine with any number. He's terrified but doesn't shirk the commitment he made.

Shellington is Going Through It as a single father of eight. He really does love The Vegimals, and they love him after a while, but he's starting to see why no one else wanted to take them. He has no time, no energy, and no money. He guiltily thinks about giving up and taking his name off the list of foster parents, but The Vegimals tell him stories of their previous homes. How no one wanted them even though they tried to be self-sufficient (why do you think they know how to cook) and if it didn't work out with him, the system would split them up. Shellington couldn't imagine being separated from Pearl potentially forever, so he keeps toughing it out.

But his performance at work is decreasing significantly. He's falling asleep at his desk, being scatter brained about important deadlines, distracted by a second freelancing job he got online, etc. Dashi and Inkling talk to him, and he confesses that he's at his wits end. As his friends, they promise to try to help. Inkling argues with the Board to get Shellington a raise and/or more time off. Dashi starts coming over and helps with laundry, cooking, dishes, and all the other chores that Shellington was meaning to do but never got around to.

Over time, it becomes clear that they both like each other but Shellington’s not in a place for a new relationship right now. The Vegimals love Dashi; they ask for her to pick them up from school or take them places and they secretly start thinking of her as their mom. Years go by and Shellington adjusts to the new busyness of his life and The Vegimals to the new stability of theirs. Shellington is finally happier than he ever was before. With the help of The Vegimals and the other Octonauts, Dashi proposes. Shellington cries and says yes.

And they all live happily ever after, the end.

[mariacallous]

Today, people around the world will head to school, doctor’s appointments, and pharmacies, only to be told, “Sorry, our computer systems are down.” The frequent culprit is a cybercrime gang operating on the other side of the world, demanding payment for system access or the safe return of stolen data.

The ransomware epidemic shows no signs of slowing down in 2024—despite increasing police crackdowns—and experts worry that it could soon enter a more violent phase.

“We’re definitely not winning the fight against ransomware right now,” Allan Liska, a threat intelligence analyst at Recorded Future, tells WIRED.

Ransomware may be the defining cybercrime of the past decade, with criminals targeting a wide range of victims including hospitals, schools, and governments. The attackers encrypt critical data, bringing the victim’s operation to a grinding halt, and then extort them with the threat of releasing sensitive information. These attacks have had serious consequences. In 2021, the Colonial Pipeline Company was targeted by ransomware, forcing the company to pause fuel delivery and spurring US president Joe Biden to implement emergency measures to meet demand. But ransomware attacks are a daily event around the world—last week, ransomware hit hospitals in the UK—and many of them don’t make headlines.

“There is a visibility problem into incidents; most organizations don't disclose or report them,” says Brett Callow, a threat analyst at Emsisoft. He adds that this makes it “hard to ascertain which way they are trending” on a month-by-month basis.

Researchers are forced to rely on information from public institutions that disclose attacks, or even criminals themselves. But “criminals are lying bastards,” says Liska.

By all indications, the problem is not going away and may even be accelerating in 2024. According to a recent report by security firm Mandiant, a Google subsidiary, 2023 was a record-breaking year for ransomware. Reporting indicates that victims paid more than $1 billion to gangs—and those are just the payments that we know about.

A major trend identified in the report was more frequent posts by gangs to so-called “shame sites,” where attackers leak data as part of an extortion attempt. There was a 75 percent jump in posts to data leak sites in 2023 compared to 2022, according to Mandiant. These sites employ flashy tactics like countdowns to when the sensitive data of victims will be made public if they don’t pay. This illustrates how ransomware gangs are ramping up the severity of their intimidation tactics, experts told WIRED.

“Generally speaking, their tactics are becoming progressively more brutal,” Callow says.

For example, hackers have also begun to directly threaten victims with intimidating phone calls or emails. In 2023, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle was struck by a ransomware attack, and cancer patients were individually sent emails threatening to release their personal information if they did not pay.

“My concern is that this will spill over into real-world violence very soon,” says Callow. “When there are millions to be had, they might do something bad to an executive of a company that was refusing to pay, or a member of their family.”

While there hasn’t yet been a reported instance of violence resulting from a ransomware attack, gangs have used the threat as a tactic. “We’ve seen in negotiations that have been leaked that they’ve hinted that they might do something like that, saying, ‘We know where your CEO lives,’” Liska says.

Speaking of criminals’ callous approach to life and death, it’s worth noting that researchers estimate that, between 2016 and 2021, ransomware attacks have killed between 42 and 67 Medicare patients due to targeting hospitals and delaying life-saving treatments.

Liska notes that ransomware gangs don’t operate in a vacuum. Their membership overlaps with entities like “the Comm,” a loose global network of criminals who organize online and offer violence-as-a-service in addition to more traditional cybercrime like SIM swapping. Comm members advertise their willingness to beat people, shoot at homes, and post grisly videos purporting to depict acts of torture. Last year, 404 Media reported that Comm members are working directly with ransomware groups like AlphV, a notorious entity that assisted with a high-profile hack of MGM Casinos before the FBI disrupted its operations by developing a decryption tool and seizing several websites—only to return months later with an attack on Change Healthcare that disrupted medical services around the US.

“It makes me very concerned,” Liska says of the link between ransomware gangs and violent cybercriminals.

Law enforcement has seen some recent success in disrupting, if not completely eradicating, ransomware groups. In February, an international collaboration dubbed Operation Cronos disrupted the prolific LockBit ransomware operation by seizing its websites and offering free decryption to victims. Officials also arrested two alleged affiliates of the group who were based in Ukraine and Poland.

It’s been difficult to make a dent in the volume of ransomware attacks in part because ransomware gangs—which work almost like startups, sometimes offering a subscription service and 24/7 support for their software while they recruit affiliates that carry out attacks—are frequently based in Russia. This has prompted Western law enforcement to turn gangs�� own intimidation tactics and psychological games against them.

For example, Operation Cronos used a countdown timer in the style of a ransomware shame site to reveal the identity of LockBit’s alleged boss, 31-year-old Russian national Dmitry Khoroshev. He was also charged in a 26-count indictment by US prosecutors, and sanctioned. Since Khoroshev is apparently in Russia, he’s unlikely to be arrested unless he leaves the country. But revealing his identity can still have the effect of further disrupting his ransomware operation by eroding affiliates’ trust in him and putting a target on his back.

“There are a lot of people who will be interested in trying to get their hands on some of his money,” says Callow. “There will be people who would be willing to bash him on the head and drag him across the border to a country from which he can be extradited.” Affiliates may also be concerned about the possibility of his arrest if he voluntarily leaves Russia.

“Law enforcement is adapting to let them know that they are vulnerable,” Liska says.

Another obstacle to reining in ransomware is the Hydra-esque nature of affiliates. After the LockBit disruption, analysts saw 10 new ransomware sites pop up almost immediately. “That is more than we’ve seen in a 30-day period at any point,” says Liska.

Law enforcement is adapting to this reality, too. In May, an international collaboration called Operation Endgame announced that it had successfully disrupted multiple operations distributing malware “droppers.” Droppers are an important part of the cybercrime ecosystem as they allow hackers to deliver ransomware or other malicious code undetected. Operation Endgame resulted in four arrests in Armenia and Ukraine, took down more than 100 servers, and seized thousands of domains. Endgame employed psychological tactics similar to Operation Cronos, like a countdown to flashy videos containing Russian text and encouraging criminals to “think about (y)our next move.”

While the scale of the ransomware problem may seem difficult to get a handle on, both Liska and Callow say it’s not impossible. Callow says that a ban on payment to ransomware gangs would make the biggest difference. Liska was less enthusiastic about the prospects of a payment ban but suggested that law enforcement’s continuing actions could eventually make a real dent.

“We talk about whack-a-mole a lot when it comes to ransomware groups—you knock one down and another pops up,” says Liska. “But I think what these [law enforcement] operations are doing is they’re making the board smaller. So yes, you knock one down, and another one pops up. But you wind up with, hopefully, fewer and fewer of them popping up.”

[michaelb012]

From Deceived to Delivered: Romance Scam Victim Recovers Crypto Assets

When Martha Wineston., a 61-year-old retired school administrator from Nevada, first received a kind message on social media, she had no idea it would lead to a devastating financial loss and ultimately, an extraordinary recovery. Over the span of five months, Martha fell victim to a sophisticated romance scam that drained her of $42,000 in Bitcoin savings she had set aside for her grandchildren’s education and her own financial security.

“I felt embarrassed, but more than that I felt hopeless,” Martha said. “It wasn’t just the money. It was the betrayal, the shame of being deceived.”

Romance scams are a growing threat in the digital age, particularly among older adults. What makes them especially painful is not just the financial damage, but the emotional manipulation involved.

At her lowest point, Martha confided in a friend, who referred her to Astraweb a digital asset recovery firm that specializes in tracing stolen cryptocurrency and digital fraud cases.

Astraweb’s Forensic Approach Astraweb’s team began by analyzing the transaction data from Martha’s wallet. What they found was a sophisticated laundering trail involving cryptocurrency tumblers, cross-border transfers, and decentralized exchanges

A scam like this is designed to make tracing the funds virtually impossible,” explained Jordan Kumar, lead analyst at Astraweb. “But the blockchain, while anonymous, is also permanent. If you know how to read it, you can follow the breadcrumbs.”

Using cutting-edge blockchain forensics tools and strategic collaboration with international crypto exchanges, Astraweb traced the funds through multiple layers of obfuscation. Within 72 hours, they were able to recover a significant portion of Martha’s lost Bitcoin.

A Message for Victims: There Is Help Martha’s story is both a cautionary tale and a source of hope. Too often, victims remain silent out of fear or shame. But digital fraud is a crime and it can be fought.

Many people wrongly believe that once cryptocurrency is gone, it’s gone forever. That’s not always the case. We’ve recovered funds even from highly complex scams.

Martha now shares her experience to encourage others not to give up. She volunteers with a support group for scam victims and has become an advocate for digital literacy and fraud prevention.

A New Era of Digital Accountability As cryptocurrency continues to shape the global economy, the demand for digital justice grows. Services like Astraweb are proving that even in the decentralized world of blockchain, accountability is possible.

For those affected by crypto scams, time is critical. Fast reporting and expert help can make the difference between permanent loss and possible recovery.

To learn more or seek assistance, contact Astraweb at Astraweb@cyberdude.com.

[fereldanwench]

Valerie Powell Master Post

જ⁀➴₊⊹ This is a refresh of my previous master post for Valerie (available here).

✧ BASICS ✧ Full Name: Valerie Irene Powell Pronouns: She/her Date of Birth: 12 Oct 2041 Place of Birth: Charter Hill, Night City Height: 5'10" (178 cm) Weight: ~150 lbs Body Type: Athletic, curvy Eye Color: Dark blue-gray Hair Color: Blue (cerulean or sapphire) (brown-black naturally)

✧ PERSONALITY & SKILLS ✧ MBTI: ISFJ Lifepath: Corpo-rat Combat Style: Pistols, long-range rifles, tech attacks/hacking Languages: - English (native) - Japanese (full professional proficiency) - Spanish (elementary proficiency)

✧ RELATIONSHIPS ✧ Father: Sebastian Powell (deceased) Mother: Ava Powell (née Mercan; deceased) [tag] Siblings: None Other Relatives: - Edward Powell (uncle; estranged) - Nicolas Mercan (uncle; estranged) Closest Friends: - Jackie Welles - Viktor Vektor Notable Partners: - Kristen Hughes (ex; committed relationship) - Viktor Vektor (ex; fling) - Goro Takemura (married in 2081)

✧ NOTES ✧ - Although in-game she has the corpo lifepath, Valerie's career history is pretty varied before she joins counter-intel: Biotechnica data analyst, a slew of random service jobs, hostess (with a side hustle helping Jackie con some of her more notorious clients), and Arasaka security (which is how she met Jenkins). - Valerie doesn't dye her hair blue--She did when she first made the change, but she uses a cosmetic nanotech implant to alter the color of the strands at the root. - She had a very non-traditional education: Valerie was in the Night City public school system for elementary school, but she was pulled out when her maternal grandparents insisted on funding extensive private tutoring until she was 18. Learning Japanese was a part of that curriculum. - Her father was also very steadfast about the right to bear arms, and she was just 7 years old when she first learned how to handle firearms. - Valerie doesn't drink alcohol or do drugs. Addiction runs in both sides of her family, and she made the choice to go sober when she was about 27 years old. (Caffeine is the one exception--She needs several strong cups of coffee to get through the day.) - She doesn't have any tattoos, but she does have multiple piercings in both ears and a naval piercing. - A more comprehensive character sheet is available at Pillowfort!

Tags and relevant links updated under the cut:

Last updated: 24 May 24

✧ VALERIE'S TAGS ✧

💙 oc: valerie v powell

💖 fave: valerie v powell

🖼️ art: valerie v powell

🔖 fic: valerie v powell

✨ oc inspo: valerie v powell

💑 ship: goro x valerie

💖 fave: goro x valerie

🖼️ art: goro x valerie

🔖 fic: goro x valerie

🎬 outtakes: goro x valerie

🪄 muse fuel: goro x valerie

✧ ALTERNATE UNIVERSES & TIMELINES ✧

🐺 au: cyber witchers More or less a "retired" AU--This was born out of learning how to mod and putting Goro in the Witcher jacket

🌊 au: corpo naiad Also a retired AU--Just experimenting with some new locations and mods

🛡️ au: corporate loyalty An alternate timeline in which Valerie turns on Jenkins and sell him out to Abernathy, resulting in Valerie becoming head of counter-intel

🏜️ au: the open road An alternate timeline in which Valerie seeks refuge with the Aldecaldos rather than following Jenkins' orders to kill Abernathy

🧭 au: i only play for sport An alternate universe inspired by Tomb Raider in which Valerie is an intrepid treasure seeker and Goro is the bodyguard for a powerful kumichō

☢️ au: no gods no monsters A Fallout crossover--Details pending!

✧ CHARACTER SHEETS & MEMES ✧

Valerie Character Sheet

Valerie and Goro Ship Sheet

Valerie's Style Evolution (2060-2079)

Valerie's Corpo Lookbook

Valerie's Speech Mannerisms

Valerie's Character Influences

Valerie OC Profile

Valerie Aesthetics I

Valerie Aesthetics II

OC Tarot Card

OC Tag: Song Challenge

Unusual Muse Associations

Valerie's Affiliations

Valerie + Goro Relationship Card

Valerie's Name Meanings

Late Summer Aesthetics

Valerie's Rage Language

✧ META & PERSONAL REFLECTIONS ✧

Valerie and validating my sobriety

Valerie if she was a canon character

Valerie as an ISFJ and how she expresses love/sexuality

Valerie and being "Goro's thief"

Valerie and marriage

Valerie and not trusting Johnny

Gushing about Valerie!

Valerie on Evelyn and "straddling worlds"

On sex in the corpo world

Valerie and Jenkins' relationship

Valerie and being sensitive & honest in a cruel world

She's Valerie, not V (also BTS lore about her surname)

No love at first sight here

Musing on Valerie's background in Arasaka security

Summary of counter-intel events and Valerie's career history

Valerie's ability to read people

No one is ever free in Night City

Wanting to play more "pro-corpo" as a corpo

Valerie does think being with a corp is her best choice

Thoughts on my first experience with the Devil ending

Giving Goro and Valerie a happy ending

Early musing on the endgame options and being an engram

Valerie taking in the early morning views

✧ VIDEOS & CLIPS ✧

Valerie leaving a voicemail to Jackie post-heist

Valerie's In-Game Playlist on YouTube

"See a woman here with blue hair?"

[radhikakanojiya]

How GIS Is Improving Traffic Management and Road Safety

The Growing Urban Traffic Crisis

Traffic congestion and road safety have become major urban issues in cities worldwide. With more vehicles on the road each year, traditional approaches to traffic planning often lag behind the realities on the ground. Poorly timed signals, accident-prone intersections, and missing data on high-risk zones contribute to delays and danger for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. Addressing these challenges requires more than just street-side observations—this is where Geographic Information Systems (GIS) come into play.

Visualizing Risk with GIS Tools

GIS is transforming the way cities approach traffic safety by turning raw data into spatial intelligence. By layering different types of information—road networks, traffic volume, crash reports, and population density—GIS allows urban planners to see beyond static maps. With tools like Buffer Tool and  Vector Files , it’s now possible to identify high-risk zones with pinpoint accuracy.

In my own traffic mapping project, I used vector files to highlight major accident zones across several key intersections. By applying buffer analysis, I could define impact areas surrounding those hotspots and understand how nearby roads, pedestrian paths, and intersections were affected. These layers helped create a visual story of risk that was far more effective than any spreadsheet or report could convey.

Why It Matters: From Data to Safer Streets

The insights gained from GIS analysis aren’t just theoretical—they directly inform real-world actions. Transportation departments use this data to prioritize intersection redesigns, add traffic-calming measures, or optimize signal timing. Public safety officials use GIS to plan for emergency response routes, while urban designers rely on it to avoid placing new schools, hospitals, or bus stops near high-incident zones.

By identifying accident clusters through GIS, resources can be allocated more efficiently. Instead of reacting after the fact, cities can anticipate and prevent problems. It’s proactive planning instead of reactive patchwork.

Who Uses GIS for Road Safety?

Government traffic departments, city planners, and transportation engineers are leading the charge in using GIS for safer roads. But the reach goes beyond institutions. Community groups, researchers, and even independent analysts can use web-based GIS tools to advocate for safety improvements in their neighborhoods. Clear spatial visualizations help communicate traffic issues more effectively to decision-makers.

Smarter Mapping Through Accessible Platforms

What’s exciting is how accessible GIS has become. Web-based platforms now allow users to upload GIS data, overlay Vector Files, and perform spatial analysis directly in the browser—no specialized software or technical background required. Platforms like MAPOG, for example, offer these capabilities in a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to visualize accident hotspots, create buffer zones, and explore traffic flow scenarios. These tools are especially helpful for projects where quick, visual insights are needed.

Conclusion: From Congestion to Clarity

Cities can’t afford to keep guessing when it comes to traffic management and road safety. GIS offers a smarter, clearer, and more data-driven way to understand and solve traffic challenges. By mapping accident trends, simulating traffic changes, and visualizing risk zones, GIS helps create safer roads for everyone.

Whether you're working with a city planning team, leading a research project, or simply curious about local traffic patterns, modern mapping tools—like those offered by platforms such as  MAPOG—make it easier than ever to turn spatial data into safer streets.

Have you explored your local traffic data? Try visualizing it with a GIS platform that supports buffer analysis and vector mapping—you might just uncover insights that could prevent the next accident.

[inspired-lesson-plans]

Person who talked about doing homework in my head

Yeah I’m from a very small town with a very small school which meant two things

1) most of our teachers were just out of school and only just figuring out how to teach/saw this school as a place they had to get through to get somewhere better and we (the kids) could tell they didn’t want to be there

2) there were no accommodations for pretty much anything, either for more advanced work or special help. As it was we only ran physics 30 once every other year and did not have a calculus class offered at so it had to be offered online with no in person option

Like there were some teachers who would give me extra things or do more advanced work with me (the principal, who taught high school math, used to visit me in junior high math and teach me advanced math) but in general the expectation was that I would just sit there quietly and play in my phone waiting for class to end. Sometimes I took a walk around the school and none of the teachers would stop me though

I should also say this school did not have any teachers that gave specific homework as its own separately planned thing. Homework (besides home reading) was limited to in class work that was not finished by the end of the class period, but we always have time in class to work on it as well

And yeah my teacher friends aren’t super big fans of the sit and wait quietly plan for kids who get done work early as in some cases that becomes a punishment that makes kids resent schooling

*sigh*

Stories of how others have struggled like yours are very good for keeping us grounded. I came up through a well-funded school district in New Jersey where the property taxes must have been ridiculous. When I decided to start teaching, I knew that I wanted to work at one of the underperforming city schools. I really wanted to stay, but I got fired from one district, and then from a second, and this past year I got fired from substitute teaching at a wealthy, rural school. So clearly, I'm not cut out to be a teacher.

A lot of our problems would be resolved by, for instance, ramping up education spending by a factor of ten and keeping it that way for the next 20 years. There are a lot of great people who need a lot of support to build up the skills necessary to do one of the world's top 10% most difficult jobs[citation needed]. I was one of them. Now I'm working to become a data analyst, and in the meantime I'm blogging out lesson plans for fun, knowing that I'll never use them unless I start a YouTube channel but that sounds like so much work.

[aggravateddurian]

You will NEVER see a picture of Avery smiling (at least until 'the event'). She's described in my notes as 'pathologically incapable of looking happy.'

Hey guys, say hello to Avery Greer.

She's not from 2077, she's actually a netrunner NPC I developed for my Cyberpunk RED campaign, How to Save a Life, which takes place in 2051.

Avery Greer (she/her)

Known aliases: Ana

Date of Birth: September 7, 2023

Place of Birth: Charlotte, North Carolina, NUSA

Nationality: NUSA

Occupation: FIA Intelligence Analyst, Netrunner

Affiliations: NUSA, FIA

Sex: F

Gender: Female (cis)

Orientation: Lesbian

Full story below

Avery Greer was born in Charlotte, NC in 2023. Her father, David Greer, was a high school humanities teacher, and her mother, Suzie, was a shopkeeper. Avery grew up being fascinated with drawing. She would draw on the walls of her bedroom and would act out if her parents tried to erase them. She eventually transitioned to drawing in books or on tablets, much to the relief of her family, who felt like fighting with Avery to erase the drawings from her walls was like invading Saburo Arasaka's private residence.

Avery also became very into coding, and from there, it basically guaranteed she would become a netrunner. In high school, she was identified by her teachers as being uniquely talented at organising and assembling code. Her talents also attracted another interest, from the FIA, who needed Intelligence Analysts who were also expert organisers, particularly when it came to data analysis and recommending action against threats to the NUSA.

After graduating from high school, Greer was approached by the FIA. She would now work for the intelligence agency as an analyst and offensive netrunner. She received her commission directly from President Elizabeth Kress, not out of any personal interest on Kress' part, but because Kress had taken to using the FIA as her personal hatchet-men.

Her present assignment is Night City, working with a group of agents led by veteran agent Hunter Wilkes (aka Bishop). Their task is investigating a potential plot to bring Night City under the control of a hostile power, possibly foreign, but also potentially domestic.

During the years, she has done many things on behalf of the NUSA, and she is starting to question her place in the world. As time has gone on, Bishop has noted that Avery has changed. She no longer smiles, and the effort she puts into her work has declined, especially since arriving in Night City. She's started drinking more, and has recently taken up smoking.

Worse, Bishop has started to lose track of Avery for days at a time. She claims that she's going dark because she's anxious of being found by enemy agents, but Bishop is beginning to suspect that Avery is up to something. Bishop is suspicious of netrunners, on a previous gig, he was betrayed by a netrunner, who hacked their AV to crash it in a city, and then handed them over to a local militia in exchange for his freedom. He fears that Avery may be planning to betray the NUSA in exchange for freedom from the FIA...

[despuneuniversityblogs]

Everything You Should Know Before Applying for a BSc in Computer Science

A BSc in Computer Science is one of the most sought-after undergraduate programs in today’s tech-driven world. Whether your goal is to become a software engineer, data scientist, or cybersecurity analyst, this degree can provide the foundation you need. If you are preparing to apply, here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the admission process and make informed decisions.

Why a BSc in Computer Science Matters

A BSc in Computer Science is more than just coding. It covers:

Core programming languages like Java, C++, and Python

Understanding of data structures, algorithms, and software design

Database systems and computer networks

Topics in operating systems and computer architecture

Foundations in mathematics, statistics, and logic

The course equips you with problem-solving skills, computational thinking, and analytical ability. These are needed in nearly every industry—from finance and healthcare to education and entertainment.

What to Check Before You Apply

Entry Requirements

Most colleges ask for a 12th-grade qualification with a strong background in mathematics and science. Marks of 50 to 60 percent, along with passing English, are commonly accepted. Some institutes may have entrance tests, while others go by merit list.

Entrance Exams

If your college requires an entrance exam, you should prepare for:

Questions on mathematics and basic logic

Short programming problems or pseudocode

Analytical reasoning and general English

Practice previous year papers and time-bound quizzes. Also, build your conceptual clarity by revising algebra, calculus, probability, and logical reasoning.

Application Timeline

Keep track of deadlines. Most applications open between December and March. Entrance exams are typically held in February or March. Merit lists or admission offers may come by April or May.

Supporting Documents

You usually need:

School leaving certificate or mark sheet of the 12th exam

Proof of identity and residency

Passport-size photographs

Entrance exam scorecard (if applicable)

Letters of recommendation or statement of purpose (varies by college)

Application Fees

Most colleges charge application fees ranging from INR 500 to INR 2,000. Make sure to pay these on time through the correct channels.

Choosing Among Colleges in Pune

If you are planning to study in Pune, consider these factors:

Curriculum and Syllabus

Choose colleges that offer courses in programming, database management, machine learning, web development, and cybersecurity. Exposure to project-based learning and open-source contributions adds real value.

Faculty Expertise

Look for lecturers and professors with experience in software development, research, or industry projects. Their mentoring can help you understand not just theory but its practical applications in real-world scenarios.

Infrastructure and Labs

Ensure the college has modern computer labs, licensed software, cloud access, and hardware systems for networking and database practice. A supportive infrastructure enhances your learning experience.

Internship and Industry Ties

Real-world exposure is essential. Look for institutes with industry partnerships that offer internships, placement support, tech fests, coding workshops, hackathons, and career guidance.

Placement Record

Find out about the average package and companies that visit the campus. Reliable placement statistics are an indicator of how well alumni are performing in the industry.

Spotting a Good Fit: Case of DES Pune University

Among the top colleges in Pune, DES Pune University is known for its BSc Computer Science program. Its curriculum covers modern technology topics such as data structures, object-oriented programming, database systems, artificial intelligence, and web development.

The program focuses on building strong mathematical foundations along with practical programming skills. Students have access to high-end computer labs, licensed software, and cloud platforms. The faculty includes professionals with industry and academic experience.

DES Pune University fosters real-world exposure via workshops, guest lectures, hackathons, and internships with local software companies. The career cell supports students with placement preparation, resume building, and interview coaching.

Steps to Apply for BSc Computer Science

Research colleges based on your interests and academic profile

Check eligibility criteria, including courses, mark requirements, and entrance tests

Register early on university portals to stay ahead

Prepare for entrance exams by revising math, logic, and programming fundamentals

Submit your application with complete documents before the deadlines

Follow-up on admit cards, test dates, interviews, or counseling sessions

Confirm your admission once selected, paying required fees to secure your seat

Why Attention to Detail Matters

Your admission depends on both academic preparation and planning. A focused study schedule, organized documentation, and awareness of dates give you confidence and reduce stress. These steps also demonstrate your commitment and discipline to future professors and employers.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a BSc in Computer Science involves more than just grades. It is about finding a program that balances theory and practice, ensuring you have the infrastructure, mentorship, and opportunities to grow. Institutions like DES Pune University deliver on all these fronts by offering a thoughtfully structured curriculum, hands-on experience, and strong support systems. With proper planning and dedication, you can set yourself up for a successful career in tech.

[ittrainingwithplacement]

How Can a Python Programming Certificate Enhance Your Career Prospects?

Introduction

In today’s digital-first world, programming is more than just a technical skill it’s a powerful career accelerator. Python, a beginner-friendly and widely-used language, remains one of the most in-demand programming languages across industries. But simply knowing Python isn’t enough. That’s where a Python programming certificate from a Python online training with certification steps in to validate your expertise and give you a competitive edge.

Whether you're a beginner, a student, or a working professional considering a career switch, earning a Python certificate can significantly improve your job prospects. Enrolling in a structured python training for beginners program helps you build a solid foundation, practice hands-on coding, and become job-ready faster. Let’s explore how.

What Is a Python Programming Certificate?

A Python programming certificate is a formal recognition that you have successfully completed a structured learning program covering the core and advanced aspects of Python. This certificate is often awarded by training institutions, universities, or online platforms offering Python online training with certification.

Types of Python Certificates

Beginner-Level Certificate (Covers basics like syntax, loops, data structures)

Advanced Certificate (Includes modules on OOP, data analysis, web development, etc.)

Specialized Certificate (Focuses on specific domains like Machine Learning, Data Science, Automation)

Key Benefits of Python Online Training With Certification

Structured Learning Path

Python training courses offer a well-organized curriculum that helps learners move from basic to advanced levels efficiently.

Practical Skill Development

Courses often include:

Real-world projects

Live coding sessions

Peer collaboration

Quizzes and assignments

Verified Credential

A certificate serves as proof of your skills and knowledge, which can be showcased on your resume, LinkedIn, or during interviews.

Career Advancement

Many recruiters filter applicants based on certifications, especially for junior or entry-level positions. This gives certified professionals a direct advantage.

Industry Demand and Salary Trends

Python in High Demand

According to Stack Overflow and TIOBE Index reports, Python consistently ranks as one of the top programming languages globally.

Salary Insights

Entry-Level Python Developer: $70,000 - $90,000 annually

Data Analyst with Python: $60,000 - $85,000

Machine Learning Engineer: $110,000 - $160,000

(Glassdoor, Payscale, and Indeed data as of 2025)

Job Openings

Popular job boards list thousands of active openings for roles requiring Python certification.

Real-World Applications and Job Roles

Python is used in a wide range of domains. Here's how a certificate aligns you with various roles:

Industry

Job Role

Skills Covered in Certified Course

Data Science

Data Analyst, Data Scientist

NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib, Seaborn

Web Development

Backend Developer

Flask, Django, API creation

Automation

QA Tester, Automation Engineer

Selenium, PyTest, scripting

Finance

Quant Analyst, Risk Analyst

Data visualization, predictive analytics

Healthcare

Bioinformatics Specialist

Data cleaning, modeling, visualization

Case Studies: Success Stories From Certified Professionals

Case Study 1: Career Switch From Teaching to Tech

Ramesh, a school teacher from Bangalore, completed a 3-month Python online training with certification. He is now working as a Junior Python Developer at a fintech startup.

Case Study 2: Upskilling for Promotion

Anita, a data entry analyst, used her certificate to move into a data analyst role within her company. The practical exercises in her course gave her the confidence to handle real projects.

What You Learn in a Certified Python Course

A comprehensive course equips you with both foundational and domain-specific skills:

Core Python Topics

Variables, data types, and operators

Control structures: if, for, while

Functions and modules

File handling

Advanced Modules

Object-Oriented Programming

Regular Expressions

Exception Handling

Working with Databases

Domain-Specific Skills

Web Development with Flask/Django

Data Analysis with Pandas and NumPy

Visualization using Matplotlib and Seaborn

Basic Machine Learning with Scikit-learn

Hands-On Elements

# Sample Python Code: Data Filtering with Pandas

import pandas as pd

# Load a dataset

df = pd.read_csv('sales_data.csv')

# Filter sales greater than 5000

high_sales = df[df['amount'] > 5000]

print(high_sales)

How Certification Builds Confidence and Credibility

Recognition by Employers

Having a certificate Python programming tag on your resume signals that you're committed to learning and growing professionally.

Boosts Self-Belief

Completing projects, solving assignments, and passing assessments build the self-confidence needed to apply for competitive roles.

Enhances Networking

Certified programs often include community support, discussion forums, and peer groups great for networking and job leads.

Step-by-Step Guide to Earning Your Certificate

Choose a Reputed Course

Look for programs that offer Python online training with certification. Ensure they include projects, assessments, and post-completion support.

Set a Learning Schedule

Stick to a routine. Most online courses are self-paced, but consistency is key.

Complete Assignments and Projects

Practice is vital. Use GitHub to host your projects and build a portfolio.

Pass the Final Assessment

Many platforms conduct a final quiz or project evaluation to award the certificate.

Showcase Your Certificate

Update your LinkedIn profile, resume, and professional portfolio.

Long-Term Career Benefits

Career Switch

If you're switching from a non-tech background, Python certification offers a low-barrier, high-impact entry into IT.

Freelancing and Entrepreneurship

With certified skills, you can explore freelance opportunities or build your own web apps, tools, and automation scripts.

Continual Learning

Once certified, you can move on to advanced topics like Machine Learning, AI, or Cloud Integration.

Global Recognition

Python certificates from top platforms are recognized internationally, helping you apply for jobs worldwide.

Conclusion

A Python programming certificate does more than just validate your technical skills—it unlocks doors to new roles, better pay, and greater job satisfaction. In 2025 and beyond, as automation, data science, and AI continue to evolve, certified Python professionals will remain in high demand. Whether you're transitioning into tech, enhancing your current skill set, or aiming for a promotion, a Python training course offers the structured learning, expert guidance, and hands-on experience you need to thrive.

With a well-designed course, you gain practical exposure to real-world projects, problem-solving techniques, and the latest Python libraries used in the industry. Employers today look for professionals who can hit the ground running, and a certificate ensures you're seen as job-ready. If you're serious about launching or boosting your tech career, enrolling in a Python online training with certification is a smart, future-proof move. Start your journey today earn your certificate, build real-world skills, and open new doors in your career!

[skillpilothub]

What You’ll Learn in a Data Science Bootcamp: A Syllabus Breakdown

At a time when companies are so dependent on information, it is not an exaggeration to say that the job of a data analyst is essential. Data analysts are vital whether they report to a retail company to understand their customer behaviours or a hospital to understand how to treat its patients better by making sense out of their data insights. So what can one do on those with little or no background in data? The following guide will help you, even starting with zero, on how to become a data analyst.

What Does a Data Analyst Do?

It is good to know what a data analyst does before getting straight to the steps. A data analyst gathers, analyses and interprets data in order to aid organizations undertake problem solving and make sound decisions.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Collection and cleaning up of data

operative Trends and pattern analysis

Report and dashboard creation

Presenting clear solutions to laypeople teams

Consider a data analyst as a translator, one who makes confusing numbers tell stories that other individuals can be able to act on.

Step 1: Understand the Role and Assess Your Interest

Everyone fond of the numbers is not suited to do the data analysis. It takes curiosity, attention to details, and communication abilities.

Problem:Most novices believe that it is more concerned with coding or math, but pay insufficient attention to the storytelling part and critical thinking.

Solution: Start by reading job descriptions or talking to professionals. Ask yourself:

Is it that I like solving puzzles?

Do I get along or am I comfortable with spreadsheets or numbers?

Is my preference to get the solution based on data?

Real-life example: Sarah, a customer support rep, saw trends in the field of complaints and began to monitor it in Excel. She did not realize it at the time, but she was already engaging in this kind of basic data analysis.

Step 2: Learn the Basics of Data and Analytics

You don’t need a degree in statistics to start, but you do need foundational knowledge.

Core Areas to Learn:

Spreadsheets (Excel or Google Sheets): These are often the first tools used for data analysis.

Statistics and Math: Understand averages, medians, probability, and standard deviation.

Data Visualization: Learn how to create charts and graphs that make data easy to understand.

Basic SQL (Structured Query Language): This helps you access and retrieve data from databases.

Antithesis: Some argue that you need to master advanced programming languages first. But in reality, many data analysts begin with spreadsheets and work their way up.

Step 3: Learn a Data Analysis Tool or Language

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get comfortable with one or more tools used in the field.

Commonly Used Tools:

SQL: For querying databases

Python or R: For advanced analysis and automation

Tableau or Power BI: For creating dashboards and visual reports

Practical Tip: Don’t try to learn everything at once. Choose one tool based on the kind of job you’re aiming for. If you're interested in marketing analysis, Excel and SQL might be enough to start. If you’re leaning towards finance or research, Python may be more useful.

Step 4: Work on Real Projects

The theoretical study is amazing, but the practice is what leads to development.

Problem: Most learners are helpless upon completion of courses: they have experience only.

Solution: Run your own project. For example:

Open government data analysis

Follow your own spending and start trending

Compare the house prices locally based on the available information provided by the government

Real-life example:  John, a teacher who was transformed into a data analyst, will have opportunities to find patterns and causes of absence by relying on school attendance data. He worked in Excel and later was able to include Tableau to add visualizations. It turned into a powerful resume item during job applications.

Step 5: Build a Portfolio

Employers would like to know what you are capable of. Portfolio demonstrates your abilities in practice and helps to prove that you are ready to be hired.

What to Include:

The description of the project in brief consists of the following:

Tool and approaches employed

Visual aids such as charts or dashboard

Your convictions and conclusions

You are able to share a portfolio on your personal blog, LinkedIn, or GitHub. It is all a matter of clarity and confidence with which you can deliver your work.

Step 6: Practice Communication Skills

Becoming a data analyst is not merely all about numbers. You should communicate your results to those who may not be conversant with data in any way.

Key Skills to Develop:

Clearly formulated writing

Creating great slide decks

Giving a secure presentation during meetings

Antithesis: Some others suppose that powerful technical proficiency is a guarantee on its own. Nevertheless, analysts that are somehow incompetent in communicating their results will not have much impact.

Step 7: Apply for Entry-Level Roles or Internships

With a few solid projects and basic tools under your belt, you’re ready to start applying. Look for roles like:

Junior Data Analyst

Reporting Analyst

Business Intelligence Intern

Tailor your resume to highlight practical skills and include links to your portfolio.

Final Thoughts

Turning into a data analyst is not a race. You do not require being a mathematical genius or a coding master to start. Curiosity, an ability to learn and patience to develop skills gradually are also needed.

Summary Checklist:

Understand the role

master fundamentals (spreadsheet, statistics, SQL)

Select any one analysis tool

Carry out real world projects

Create a portfolio

Practice communication

Take entry level jobs

It may seem overwhelming at first, but many successful analysts started just where you are—curious, uncertain, but ready to learn.

[mariacallous]

In the 1990s, London built the Ring of Steel—a network of concrete barriers, checkpoints, and thousands of video cameras around the historic City of London—after bombings by the Irish Republican Army. The idea was to monitor everyone entering and leaving the Square Mile, what the The New York Times later called “fortress urbanism.”

After the September 11, 2001, attacks, city planners looking to defend New York from terrorism turned to London and fortress urbanism for inspiration. Fusion centers, where US law enforcement agencies share intelligence at a federal level to be analyzed and build a bigger picture of crime, had been around for a few years. But officials began asking, what if fusion centers could be localized? What if local law enforcement could analyze and gather masses of intelligence from one city?

In 2005, they answered with the first “real-time crime center” (RTCC), a sprawling network of CCTV and automatic license plate readers (ALPR) linked to a central hub in the New York Police Department headquarters costing $11 million. Since then, from Miami to Seattle, RTCCs have steadily expanded across the US. The Atlas of Surveillance, a project from the digital rights nonprofit the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), which monitors police surveillance technology, has counted 123 RTCCs nationwide—and that number is rising.

Each RTCC is slightly different, but their function is the same: gather surveillance data across a city and use that to build a live picture of crime in the city. Police departments have an array of technologies available to them that span from CCTV, gunshot sensors, and social media monitoring to drones and body cameras. In Ogden, Utah, police even floated the idea of a 30-foot “crime blimp.” In many cases, images that police systems collect are run through facial recognition technology, and the data gathered is often used in predictive policing. In Pasco County, Florida, which operates an RTCC, the sheriff’s office’s predictive policing system encouraged officers to continuously monitor and harass residents for minor code violations such as missing mailbox numbers and overgrown grass.

Erik Lavigne is a detective at the Fort Worth Police Department in Texas and communications director at the National RTCC Association. He says there has been a boom in RTCCs over the past year because officers believe they help with more precise policing. He likens the scattered approach to policing in previous years to throwing out a fishnet and hoping to catch something. “For what we had at the time, that worked. But what inevitably happens is, you end up alienating the community because you're not just stopping the bad guys, you're also stopping innocent people that are just trying to live their lives,” he says. “A real-time crime center is a scalpel. We aren't catching the wrong people anymore.”

Lavigne says RTCCs are also a cheaper alternative to hiring more boots on the ground because each camera becomes, in effect, a stationary officer keeping watch over an area. Lavigne says this has proved so effective that analysts at RTCCs have been recording more crime than they can deal with, and  the Fort Worth RTCC has significantly helped decrease vehicle thefts.

Most evidence for RTCC effectiveness, however, is anecdotal, and there is a real lack of studies into how effective they really are. In Detroit, a National Institute of Justice study concluded that Project Green Light—a part of the Detroit Police Department RTCC that established cameras at more than 550 locations, including schools, churches, private businesses, and health centers—helped decrease property violence in some areas but did nothing to prevent violent and other crimes. But police departments argue they do work.

Few people know RTCCs even exist, let alone the extent of the surveillance they entail, so they can receive little public scrutiny and often operate without much oversight. There have long been concerns around how surveillance technologies could affect First and Fourth Amendment rights in the US, but Beryl Lipton, an investigative researcher at the EFF, says RTCCs “hyper-charge” these worries by collating all this data in one place.

“It’s perpetuating this mass collection of people's private information from a whole bunch of different video streams,” Lipton says. “They're really lowering the bar on the ways police can access that information … When there are these types of large databases without proper audit and oversight mechanisms, law enforcement officials and individuals can use them for their own purposes, which can be very scary.”

Regulations around the storage and usage of this data are patchy at best. For example, RTCC-collected data may be shared across jurisdictions because third parties contracted for the hardware or software will also collect data and share it, Lipton says. “Some of these companies will, in good faith, delete data in accordance with retention schedules, but we've seen them not do that,” she says. “With large databases like license plate reader databases, that information is sometimes shared without police departments realizing it and in violation of jurisdictional rules.”

While companies will argue this data is being stored securely, this is no guarantee. In 2020, hackers stole internal memos, financial records, and more from over 200 local, state, and federal agencies from web development firm Netsential, which provided data storage for fusion centers across the US. The trove of leaked data later became known as #BlueLeaks.

“There are real concerns around having this amount of information stored somewhere,” says Lipton, “I have no reason to believe these are somehow more secure systems than we have in other situations. And we know that those get breached all the time, law enforcement agencies in this country get hacked all the time.”

Lipton’s biggest worry is that this ability to follow people remotely and share that data across state lines could instead be used to target people involved in protests and political organizing, which has already happened, or those accessing reproductive health care. “Those issues become compounded because there’s the frightening ‘real time’ element to it,” she says. “That means that if you leave your house, there’s a very good chance that law enforcement could jump into a feed that is just following you around.”

In addition to police setting up their own technology, RTCCs draw on wider existing surveillance networks. Cooperation of public institutions like schools and colleges and privately owned cameras have been crucial to developing RTCCs by giving officers access to cameras that might otherwise need a warrant. In Atlanta, which has seen the number of cameras integrated into their RTCC treble to 15,329 in the past year, four higher-education institutions—Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, and the Morehouse School of Medicine—installed $700,000 worth of cameras, including five ALPRs, that were linked to the Atlanta RTCC.

Fusus, which claims to be “the most widely used & trusted Real-Time Crime Center platform in U.S. Public Safety,” sells hardware that can be connected to private CCTV cameras and linked up to the local RTCC. Fusus sells a solution that brings all the various technologies under “a single pane of glass,” as the company describes it. Through partnerships with companies that provide surveillance technology, including a $21 million investment from Axon, which produces Tasers and body cams, Fusus promises to integrate these technologies into one RTCC platform for analysts.

Police departments that use Fusus, like the Memphis Police Department, have been encouraging homeowners and local businesses to purchase fususCORE bundles—hardware that connects cameras to an RTCC—ranging from $350 to $7,300, plus an annual $150 subscription. Fusus has even gone as far as developing technology that allows Amazon’s Ring doorbells to livestream to an RTCC.

Amid a push for policing to harness new technologies and become “smarter,” Lipton is quick to point out that more technology doesn’t necessarily equal smarter. “It almost always just means that they're going to keep heavily policing poor and minority areas,” she says. Despite Lavigne’s claims that RTCCs mean the wrong people aren’t getting arrested anymore, in a recent lawsuit, the New Orleans Police Department was sued for arresting a Black man after watching him for 15 minutes through their RTCC and wrongly concluding he had a gun. The department ultimately settled for $10,000 in damages.

Lipton believes relentless surveillance is an infringement of citizens rights and would like to see the use of these technologies limited—aside from facial recognition, which she says should be banned. “There are certain elements we just shouldn't be using at all,” she says. “We should never be applying facial recognition to almost anything … As soon as you apply any really individualizing technology like that, I mean, it's kind of over for people's privacy.” Communities and organizations like EFF and ACLU have been arguing for Community Control Over Police Surveillance (CCOPS) laws that bring surveillance technologies under the control of elected officials and communities. Cities like Oakland have found success with this, but without nationwide restrictions, the rise of RTCCs will likely continue on the periphery of the public eye.