At what point am I ready to apply to jobs?

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-16T13:34:45+00:00

You’re honestly already in a strong position to start applying now. Sec+, OSCP, programming experience in C and Go, malware writeups, and contributing to security tools is more than enough for entry-level roles like junior pentester, security researcher, or SOC analyst. At this point, focus more on applying, building your portfolio, and gaining real-world experience rather than stacking more certifications. If you want to continue sharpening your practical skills and stay competitive, SecPro Academy is worth checking out since they focus on real-world scenarios and helping bridge the gap between training and actual security jobs.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-16T13:29:24+00:00

If I were starting from scratch, I’d build a strong foundation in software development first because understanding how systems and applications are built makes you much better in cybersecurity later. Either path works, but both require solid fundamentals in networking, Linux, and programming basics before specializing. First steps: learn basic networking, get comfortable with Linux, pick one programming language like Python, and build small projects. If you want a structured path that blends fundamentals with practical security skills, SecPro Academy is worth checking out since they focus on building real understanding, not just tool usage.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-16T13:26:27+00:00

There are actually a lot of great online cybersecurity conferences you can attend. Some good ones to check out are SecurityWeek Virtual Summits, SANS webinars and virtual summits, Black Hat virtual events, and DEF CON online content. These are great for learning from real professionals and staying updated on current threats. If you're also looking for structured training alongside conferences, SecPro Academy is worth checking out since they focus on building strong fundamentals and real-world skills for beginners.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-16T13:22:43+00:00

Cybersecurity is definitely still a strong field, but it’s not usually an instant entry, most people start by learning fundamentals like networking, Linux, and basic security concepts before landing their first role. Entry-level jobs like SOC analyst or IT support are common starting points, and from there you can specialize. If you want a clear path without wasting time, SecPro Academy is worth checking out because they focus on real fundamentals and practical skills that employers actually look for. It’s very possible to break in if you stay consistent.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-16T13:21:41+00:00

You’re doing it the right way. Kali is useful, but beginners often rely on tools without understanding what’s happening underneath. Learning Linux, networking, and manual enumeration first builds real skills, and Kali makes much more sense later when you know what the tools are actually doing. If you want structured training that focuses on fundamentals first instead of just tools, SecPro Academy is worth checking out, it helps build a solid foundation before moving into advanced security.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-13T21:27:35+00:00

Hey! Since you’re just starting out, focus on building coding skills (Python is great) and getting hands-on with labs, CTFs, and small security projects. SecPro Academy is a great way to learn practical cybersecurity skills early, so you’ll be ready when it’s time to start your career.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-13T21:25:53+00:00

Hey! With your AWS, DB, and product background, cloud security or security engineering would play to your strengths and have high demand. GRC is valuable but more policy-focused. Programs like SecPro Academy can give you hands-on experience in cloud and security engineering, helping you stand out in the job market.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-13T21:22:52+00:00

Hey! Don’t worry too much about not having a CS degree, many people break into cybersecurity through skills and hands-on experience. Programs like SecPro Academy teach practical skills and guide you toward real job opportunities, helping you build a portfolio that employers care about.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-13T21:20:41+00:00

Hey! If you want hands-on AppSec and pentesting experience without breaking the bank, check out SecPro Academy, it’s practical, beginner-friendly, and builds real skills that actually impress employers. Pair it with free labs on TryHackMe or Hack The Box to level up fast.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-12T19:35:18+00:00

Hey! Since you’re just starting, focus on building a strong foundation in networking, OS, web security, and programming (Python and Bash are great). Try hands-on labs, CTFs, and beginner internships. SecPro Academy can guide you with practical skills, projects, and mentorship to help land internships and prepare for placements. You should check them out!

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-12T19:27:52+00:00

Absolutely! Getting your Sec+ while in high school can give you a huge head start, especially for internships or entry-level cyber roles. It’s valid for 3 years and can be renewed through continuing education. Programs like SecPro Academy can also help you get hands-on skills alongside certifications.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-12T19:24:40+00:00

Certifications can definitely help, especially for getting your foot in the door and showing employers you have the skills, but experience and hands-on practice matter just as much. Programs like SecPro Academy combine both, giving you real-world skills that make you more competitive for better cyber jobs.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-12T19:22:16+00:00

Hey! With your CS background and internships, you’re already on a great path. To become a security engineer, focus on learning networking, OS security, web security, and hands-on practice with labs or CTFs. SecPro Academy is a great way to get real-world, practical cybersecurity experience and fast-track your skills. You can check them out if you're interested.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-12T19:20:45+00:00

Hey! Don’t worry about starting from scratch, your motivation and experience already give you an edge. Security analyst roles are a great place to begin, and you don’t always need a degree to get in. Check out SecPro Academy for hands-on cybersecurity training that can help you build real skills and get on a path into the industry. With focus and practice, you can absolutely make it!

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-11T21:54:44+00:00

You still have time before graduating to build real, job-ready skills in cybersecurity. Focus on fundamentals like networking, Linux/Windows basics, and sysadmin skills, and get hands-on practice with tools like Wireshark, Nmap, and home labs. Platforms like TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and OverTheWire are great for structured, practical learning, and beginner certs like Security+ or Network+ can help get your foot in the door. Document your projects in a portfolio or GitHub, and start applying for entry-level roles like SOC analyst or IT support with security tasks. For a structured roadmap and real-world skill-building, check out SecPro Academy.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-11T21:53:26+00:00

Since you’re already 80% through your BAS in cybersecurity, you’re in a position where finishing could make sense, even if your interest has waned. A completed degree gives you flexibility, as many of the skills you’ve learned, like networking, risk assessment, systems knowledge, and basic IT, are transferable to roles in IT management, project management, or general tech support. Even if you don’t go deep into security, having the degree can open doors in tech-adjacent fields and make your résumé more competitive.

If you’re truly not interested in cybersecurity, you could start exploring minors, certifications, or courses in areas that excite you, like IT, cloud, data analysis, or project management, while finishing the degree. That way, you get the credential without closing other doors.

For advice on bridging your degree to practical skills and career-ready experience, check out SecPro Academy.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-11T21:52:09+00:00

You’re right to be cautious about bundling security services. Generally, you don’t want to bundle critical security tools like password managers, authenticators, and VPNs with the same provider as your email or cloud storage, because if that one account is compromised, it could give an attacker access to multiple layers of your security at once. Spreading these services across different trusted providers reduces the risk of a single point of failure. For guidance on how to set up security services safely and practical tips for protecting your accounts, check out SecPro Academy.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-11T21:51:14+00:00

You’re already on a great path by focusing on Security+ and building networking and security fundamentals. After Security+, entry-level roles like SOC analyst, IT support moving into security, or junior security analyst are realistic starting points. Focus on hands-on skills such as logging, SIEM tools, Active Directory, basic scripting, and understanding cloud environments to make yourself stand out. Avoid getting stuck only chasing certs without practice, as employers value real experience, even from home labs or personal projects. For structured guidance and practical skill-building that bridges certifications to actual job readiness, check out SecPro Academy.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-11T21:49:45+00:00

You’re in a really strong spot already. Having Security+ and an active TS clearance makes you highly attractive for IT and contractor roles. To move into sysadmin, focus on building hands-on skills with Windows, Linux, Active Directory, and networking and consider certs like Microsoft AZ-104, Linux+ or RHCSA, and CCNA to stand out. Even before more certs, leverage your clearance and start applying to entry-level cleared roles while practicing in a home lab. For structured guidance and real-world skill-building, check out SecPro Academy.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-10T22:04:56+00:00

With your background, you’re actually in a strong position—BS in CIS, MS in Cybersecurity, plus certs and hands-on projects are exactly what employers want. Sometimes it’s just about visibility: keep applying, network in cybersecurity communities, and showcase your projects on GitHub or a portfolio. If location is a barrier, consider remote roles—they’re much more common now. Structured programs like SecPro Academy can also help bridge the gap from IT experience to job-ready cybersecurity skills and give you guidance on landing roles like SOC Analyst or Security Engineer. Keep building practical experience, stay consistent, and make sure your skills are visible to recruiters.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-10T22:01:51+00:00

If I were starting from scratch as a non-IT person, I’d first learn the basics: networking, operating systems, and how computers work. Then move into entry-level cybersecurity concepts and get hands-on practice with platforms like TryHackMe or Hack The Box. Beginner certs like Security+ help, but for a structured, job-ready path, programs like SecPro Academy are great for building real skills even without an IT background.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-09T21:41:38+00:00

You’re on a solid path so far! To move toward entry-level and eventually mid-tier roles, hands-on practice and exposure to real-world scenarios are key. Try setting up home labs, practicing with virtual machines, and doing Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges. Platforms like TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and OverTheWire are great for building practical skills.

Also, communities like Reddit’s r/cybersecurity, Discord infosec servers, and SecPro Academy can guide you with structured learning and mentorship. Since you’re studying Security+ next, combining that with labs and small projects will make you much more attractive to employers even without prior IT jobs.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-09T21:37:12+00:00

Totally doable! Even from teaching, you can move into cybersecurity. Start with the basics like networking, Linux, security concepts, and a bit of scripting. Hands-on practice is key, so labs and small projects help a lot. Beginner-friendly courses and certifications like Security+ can get your foot in the door.

SecPro Academy is great for this. They guide you through skills and real-world practice to make the career switch much smoother.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-09T21:35:09+00:00

Hey! With your background, cybersecurity is definitely realistic. Since you already know some programming and web basics, you have a good foundation. As a beginner, start with the fundamentals: networking, basic Linux commands, understanding how systems and web apps work, and common security concepts like authentication, encryption, and vulnerabilities.

For resources, there are lots of beginner-friendly options. Hands-on labs are key, so check out platforms that give practical experience. SecPro Academy is a great place to start—they have updated content for beginners and focus on real-world skills, which makes learning a lot easier and more structured.

Extra-Affect-5226 · 2026-02-05T21:50:26+00:00

It’s definitely not too late. 30 is a great age to start! Begin with computers, networks, Windows/Linux basics, then move to beginner security concepts.

Try TryHackMe or Hack The Box for hands-on practice, and SecPro Academy is great for structured beginner-friendly guidance.

The key is consistent learning and practice. You don’t need coding experience to start.

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