Breaking Into Cyber Security

From an early age, I displayed a natural talent for everything related to technology. Those around me consistently relied on my tech-savvy abilities. My interest in technology deepened when I enrolled in a Web Development course during high school. Web Development allowed me to combine my passion for creativity and coding. Creating websites from scratch, designing themes, and incorporating JavaScript became a source of immense enjoyment for me. During this period, my teacher was so impressed with my work that he dubbed me the “GOAT Coder” of the classroom and even awarded me a certification. I achieved certifications in HTML 5 & CSS Specialist and JavaScript Specialist. Following my Web Development journey, I ventured into Python and networking classes, which solidified my realization that technology was the only career field that truly intrigued me.

My innate curiosity and problem-solving skills evolved into a genuine passion, motivating me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer networks and cybersecurity. This educational path not only provided me with a strong technology foundation but also ignited my desire to delve deeper into the cybersecurity realm. My academic accomplishments, including obtaining the CompTIA Security+ certification and QualysGuard Certified Specialist designation, demonstrate my dedication to mastering the intricacies of securing digital environments.

In recent years, my professional focus has centered on critical areas of Governance and Security Operations within the cybersecurity field. I recognize the pivotal role of governance in ensuring robust and compliant security postures for organizations. Consequently, I invested substantial time and effort into expanding my expertise, exploring frameworks such as the NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF) to gain valuable insights into developing comprehensive risk management strategies. Additionally, my exploration of technologies like Splunk and SQL equipped me with the tools needed to effectively monitor and analyze security data, offering actionable insights that strengthen an organization’s defenses.

My commitment to staying current with industry standards is evident through my pursuit of knowledge in areas such as PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard), a critical framework for safeguarding sensitive financial data. My proficiency with tools like Wireshark, enabling in-depth network traffic analysis, underscores my dedication to understanding the intricate details of network security. This knowledge empowers me to swiftly and effectively identify and respond to security incidents.

My journey in cybersecurity is driven not only by professional ambition but also by an insatiable desire to learn and grow in this ever-evolving field. My passion for technology and cybersecurity is matched only by my genuine eagerness to assist others, whether it’s through sharing knowledge, collaborative problem-solving, or mentoring.

Currently, I am actively seeking employment opportunities to break into the cybersecurity field. This journey has been both interesting and challenging, but it has taught me valuable lessons in resilience and determination. To enhance my candidacy, I plan to focus on studying frameworks and gaining hands-on experience to further develop my skills and expertise.