5 answers
Nicholas
Student
Coventry, Rhode Island
1
Question
Updated
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How to break into the Cybersecurity industry once I graduate with a Bachelor's in Computer Science?
How can I start networking within my industry to get into the field of Cybersecurity? I'm looking to become a Cybersecurity Engineer at some point. I'm currently a Junior, and I should be graduating in Fall 2026 or Spring 2027.
#Spring2025
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5 answers
Kelven Leverett
Information Security Coordinator
1
Answer
Sacramento, California
Updated
Kelven’s Answer
Hi Nicholas,
Congrats on nearing the completion of your degree! In terms of networking within the industry, I recommend considering memberships with organizations like ISC2 and ISACA. They often offer discounted student memberships, which would give you access to valuable networking opportunities. ISC2 is currently offering free training and certification for their Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) program. ISACA also runs a mentorship program, where you can be matched with someone whose career path aligns with your goals for the next 5-10 years.
It sounds like you’re aiming for a technical role in cybersecurity after graduation. Starting with Network Admin or Network Engineering positions could provide a solid foundation and help you gain the experience necessary to progress in the cybersecurity field.
Best regards,
Kelven
Congrats on nearing the completion of your degree! In terms of networking within the industry, I recommend considering memberships with organizations like ISC2 and ISACA. They often offer discounted student memberships, which would give you access to valuable networking opportunities. ISC2 is currently offering free training and certification for their Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) program. ISACA also runs a mentorship program, where you can be matched with someone whose career path aligns with your goals for the next 5-10 years.
It sounds like you’re aiming for a technical role in cybersecurity after graduation. Starting with Network Admin or Network Engineering positions could provide a solid foundation and help you gain the experience necessary to progress in the cybersecurity field.
Best regards,
Kelven
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical engineer, researcher and Software Developer
204
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Cybersecurity is a vast field, but you can succeed by focusing on areas like ethical hacking, application security, or cloud security. Begin with the basics: understanding networking (TCP/IP, DNS, firewalls), Linux, and scripting (Python/Bash). Get to know tools like Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit, and Splunk, and use platforms like TryHackMe and Hack The Box for hands-on practice. If networking is your starting point, Cisco NetAcad offers great training to build a strong foundation.
Certifications like CompTIA Security+ can show your knowledge, but gaining real-world experience is just as important. Internships, IT support roles, or personal projects will help you develop practical skills. Explore virtual internships on platforms like CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks, FireEye, LinkedIn, Handshake, Indeed, Hack The Box, TryHackMe, Springboard, or Upwork to get remote experience. Keep track of your work in a GitHub repo or a portfolio site.
Make your resume shine by highlighting relevant skills, certifications, and projects, focusing on practical experience with cybersecurity tools and platforms. Boost your LinkedIn profile by showcasing your projects, certifications, and any volunteer work or personal achievements in the field. Keep it professional and detailed, using keywords that will catch recruiters' attention.
Connecting with professionals through LinkedIn, Discord, and Reddit (r/cybersecurity) is valuable. Attend events like BSides or DEF CON for more exposure. Stay updated with industry news (The Hacker News, Krebs on Security) and share your progress to build a personal brand.
When preparing for cybersecurity interviews, focus on showing your problem-solving skills and technical knowledge. Be ready to explain your thought process clearly, and use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to discuss your past projects and experiences. You might also face technical questions, so practice answering common interview questions, solve challenges on platforms like LeetCode or Hack The Box, and be ready to discuss specific cybersecurity scenarios.
Stay consistent, curious, and proactive to break into the industry. Good luck!
Certifications like CompTIA Security+ can show your knowledge, but gaining real-world experience is just as important. Internships, IT support roles, or personal projects will help you develop practical skills. Explore virtual internships on platforms like CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks, FireEye, LinkedIn, Handshake, Indeed, Hack The Box, TryHackMe, Springboard, or Upwork to get remote experience. Keep track of your work in a GitHub repo or a portfolio site.
Make your resume shine by highlighting relevant skills, certifications, and projects, focusing on practical experience with cybersecurity tools and platforms. Boost your LinkedIn profile by showcasing your projects, certifications, and any volunteer work or personal achievements in the field. Keep it professional and detailed, using keywords that will catch recruiters' attention.
Connecting with professionals through LinkedIn, Discord, and Reddit (r/cybersecurity) is valuable. Attend events like BSides or DEF CON for more exposure. Stay updated with industry news (The Hacker News, Krebs on Security) and share your progress to build a personal brand.
When preparing for cybersecurity interviews, focus on showing your problem-solving skills and technical knowledge. Be ready to explain your thought process clearly, and use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to discuss your past projects and experiences. You might also face technical questions, so practice answering common interview questions, solve challenges on platforms like LeetCode or Hack The Box, and be ready to discuss specific cybersecurity scenarios.
Stay consistent, curious, and proactive to break into the industry. Good luck!
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Nicholas
Shivam Dhar
Lead Security Engineer
13
Answers
McKinney, Texas
Updated
Shivam’s Answer
Hi Nicholas, I started out as a software engineer with a Bachelor's in Computer Science, so I can completely relate to this! When I transitioned into cybersecurity, especially cloud security - two things really helped me make the switch: developing a security mindset and having a solid understanding of the cloud (AWS).
That said, everyone’s path is unique, and Teklemuz and Kelven have already shared some amazing advice above. Sharing my two cents as the next steps below and wishing you all the best as you carve out your own path! Feel free to seek mentorship from industry practitioners to get more clarity.
Find your interests that align with cybersecurity to get a break through, refer https://www.cyberseek.org/pathway.html to get detailed insights
Work on hobby projects/skilling up and share your learnings via platforms like Medium/LinkedIn
Seek mentorship from professors/industry practitioners or connect with them to understand skills that you would need on the job
Read blogs/write-ups by other professionals on Medium/LinkedIn about security and develop a security mindset : )
That said, everyone’s path is unique, and Teklemuz and Kelven have already shared some amazing advice above. Sharing my two cents as the next steps below and wishing you all the best as you carve out your own path! Feel free to seek mentorship from industry practitioners to get more clarity.
Shivam recommends the following next steps:
Edmond Momartin ☁️
Public Cloud Security & Compliance AT&T | MBA InfoSec | OWASP-LA Board
99
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Edmond’s Answer
I agree with the points Kelven made in their response. To ISC2 (isc2.org) and ISACA (isaca.org), I'd add OWASP (owasp.org) and ISSA (issa.org). Each one of these non-profits focus on a different area of cyberscurity.
OWASP (which I currently serve on the board of Los Angeles Chapter) focuses on application security / software development and has recently made major contributions to AI Security.
So I'd suggest read through the "Explore Cybersecurity Career Options" section of https://niccs.cisa.gov/education-training/cybersecurity-students - the page provides a great overview of all available areas in cybersecurity.
Pick an area that you feel best fits your non-cyber skills, talent, and aptitudes.
OWASP (which I currently serve on the board of Los Angeles Chapter) focuses on application security / software development and has recently made major contributions to AI Security.
So I'd suggest read through the "Explore Cybersecurity Career Options" section of https://niccs.cisa.gov/education-training/cybersecurity-students - the page provides a great overview of all available areas in cybersecurity.
Pick an area that you feel best fits your non-cyber skills, talent, and aptitudes.
Randall Chains
Associate Director Cybersecurity Operations
1
Answer
Millsboro, Delaware
Updated
Randall’s Answer
Set up a LinkedIn account and start networking. Get an internship in your field. Keep learning daily and apply for jobs in the industry. Don't fear interviews; see them as chances to learn and gain experience. If you're not chosen, don't get discouraged. Keep applying. You'll learn a lot along the way. Stay positive and motivated. Good luck!