2 answers
Kayden
Student
Woodbridge, Virginia
1
Question
Updated
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How do I gain enough experience and confidence in cybersecurity while still in college to stand out in such a competitive and fast-evolving field?
High school Senior #Spring25
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2 answers
Shivam Dhar
Lead Security Engineer
13
Answers
McKinney, Texas
Updated
Shivam’s Answer
Hi Kayden! Patrick shared some great insights earlier.
Just a couple of things I’d like to add:
Cybersecurity is a vast field, so take the time to identify what interests you the most. A great place to explore potential career paths is CyberSeek - https://www.cyberseek.org/pathway.html. It not only maps out different roles within the field but also highlights the key skills and certifications that can help you land your desired position.
I also highly recommend learning a scripting language like Python/Bash/PowerShell—it’ll come in handy when you want to build automations or streamline tasks in the future.
Lastly, consider documenting your learnings on platforms like Medium or LinkedIn. It’s a great way to reinforce your knowledge and start building a digital portfolio that showcases your growth and passion for the field.
Identify your interests by making use of portals like cyberseek
Get to know any scripting language
Document your learnings on platforms like Medium/LinkedIn
Just a couple of things I’d like to add:
Cybersecurity is a vast field, so take the time to identify what interests you the most. A great place to explore potential career paths is CyberSeek - https://www.cyberseek.org/pathway.html. It not only maps out different roles within the field but also highlights the key skills and certifications that can help you land your desired position.
I also highly recommend learning a scripting language like Python/Bash/PowerShell—it’ll come in handy when you want to build automations or streamline tasks in the future.
Lastly, consider documenting your learnings on platforms like Medium or LinkedIn. It’s a great way to reinforce your knowledge and start building a digital portfolio that showcases your growth and passion for the field.
Shivam recommends the following next steps:
Patrick S
Security Specialist
16
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Kayden,
You’re already on the right track for the cybersecurity field. I suggest you start exploring and specializing in cybersecurity. If you’re interested in becoming a cybersecurity analyst, here are some resources to help you prepare for the role:
1. Aim for the CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA CySA+ certifications. You can use a student email to get a discount on the vouchers.
2. Study on platforms like LetsDefend (https://app.letsdefend.io/path/soc-analyst-learning-path) and HackTheBox Academy (https://academy.hackthebox.com/path/preview/soc-analyst) to gain hands-on experience in detection, investigation, and response.
3. Whenever possible, apply for internships at Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) and Managed Detection and Response (MDR) companies like CrowdStrike, Red Canary, and ReliaQuest.
4. Familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of operating systems (Linux and Windows) and OSINT.
5. Stay updated with cybersecurity news sources to learn about the latest threat tactics and techniques (TTPs).
Outside of this, focus on your studies, network with your professors and any other contacts you make, and develop your soft skills, such as project management and communication. The experience will come naturally with your education, personal studying, and internships overtime. You’ll do great, and good luck!
- Patrick
You’re already on the right track for the cybersecurity field. I suggest you start exploring and specializing in cybersecurity. If you’re interested in becoming a cybersecurity analyst, here are some resources to help you prepare for the role:
1. Aim for the CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA CySA+ certifications. You can use a student email to get a discount on the vouchers.
2. Study on platforms like LetsDefend (https://app.letsdefend.io/path/soc-analyst-learning-path) and HackTheBox Academy (https://academy.hackthebox.com/path/preview/soc-analyst) to gain hands-on experience in detection, investigation, and response.
3. Whenever possible, apply for internships at Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) and Managed Detection and Response (MDR) companies like CrowdStrike, Red Canary, and ReliaQuest.
4. Familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of operating systems (Linux and Windows) and OSINT.
5. Stay updated with cybersecurity news sources to learn about the latest threat tactics and techniques (TTPs).
Outside of this, focus on your studies, network with your professors and any other contacts you make, and develop your soft skills, such as project management and communication. The experience will come naturally with your education, personal studying, and internships overtime. You’ll do great, and good luck!
- Patrick