Day 1 in Cybersecurity – Year 1 in Cybersecurity
Gracie Emmanuel –
Jan 21, 2024
All credits go to Cracie for this article.
I have been working in Cybersecurity for a year and some months now, and it’s been a wild year for me, filled with unexpected twists, humbling moments, and invaluable lessons learned. Looking back, I’m grateful for my challenges and experiences.
Warning: This post is all about mistakes and the valuable lessons I’ve learned while working within the cybersecurity industry for a year. I’m spilling the tea on my most significant lessons (and trust me, there were some doozies). So, grab a coffee, and let’s get real, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious newbie.
- You don’t need a degree to be successful: Many top professionals come from non-technical backgrounds. What matters (and what good companies will hire for) is your curiosity, passion, enthusiasm for the field, and ability to learn.
- Humility, thy name is Cybersecurity: No one knows everything. One year in, I still feel like I know nothing. However, I’ve also realized that’s true for many other people. Cybersecurity is a HUGE field comprising many specialties (from digital forensics to Cyber threat intelligence to penetration testing). You don’t need to (and honestly, you can’t) understand everything. Embrace the learning curve, my friend; it’s a lifelong journey.
- The learning never stops: This field is a cheetah on steroids, constantly evolving. You can never stop learning; to keep up, you need to have a deep passion for your work. One key thing that surprised me was finding out that Everyone has side projects they’re working on, books they’re reading, or even certifications they are preparing for, and anything to stay up-to-date. So, create a GitHub repo, write a blog, join a CTF team, attend meetups and conferences, join communities, and do anything else. Get involved, get messy, and keep that brain hungry for knowledge.
- Google is your BFF, not your enemy: Not knowing something isn’t a deal breaker as long as you know where to find the information. Make Google your BFF, and feel free to ask for help. You’ll be surprised how many people have faced similar challenges (no matter how obscure) and have already been solved (and documented) by them.
Soft skills: the secret weapon (It isn’t all about your technical abilities.): Being a tech guru is excellent, but it’s only half the battle. Cybersecurity is all about collaboration, communication, and influencing others. If people see the cybersecurity team as a roadblock to their productivity and they circumvent you, you won’t be able to secure networks or data. Master the art of explaining complex threats to non-technical folks, build trust with colleagues, and be the security advocate who walks the walk, not just talks the talk.
- Preparation is key, even for “small” meetings: No meeting is too small to deserve your A-game. That mantra can help you avoid all sorts of mistakes in life. Trust me, I learned this the hard way after an integration meeting with a client went south. Yeah, not a good look! Do your homework (research), familiarize yourself with the systems and tools you’ll be using, and learn about the daily administrative tasks you’ll be responsible for. Being informed will help you avoid mistakes and be ready to hit the ground running.
- Escape the matrix before you burn out: Cybersecurity can suck you in (and with the constant focus on learning, it can easily bleed into all parts of your life), but don’t let it consume you. Burnout is real. Find your off-switch. Have hobbies (outside cybersecurity) and passions, anything that helps keep your mental health in check. Whether it’s surfing the waves, hitting the road, or getting lost in art galleries, personally, I love going to the beach, going on road trips, and visiting art galleries. Figure out what works for you and protect your well-being.
- Embrace the chaos, love the challenge: Despite the stress, the late nights, and the occasional existential crisis, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. I wake up excited, knowing I’m making a real difference. The thrill of the chase, the camaraderie of the cyber community, and the satisfaction of keeping the bad guys at bay — it’s exhilarating! So, find joy in the puzzle, embrace the adrenaline rush, and remember, this isn’t just a job; it’s an adventure. Dive in, learn, stumble, and rise again.
The Journey Continues
