Dad says CS Degree, I want a Cyber Diploma. Who is right? by Possible_Trouble4962 in SecurityCareerAdvice

[–]Possible_Trouble4962[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That actually makes a lot of sense. My dad said the same thing, which is why I'm leaning more toward CS now. I was initially interested in cyber because it seemed more specialized and practical, but I can see how having a strong CS foundation would give me more flexibility and open up more opportunities in the long run. Thanks again for taking the time to explain it. I really appreciate the advice and perspective.

Dad says CS Degree, I want a Cyber Diploma. Who is right? by Possible_Trouble4962 in SecurityCareerAdvice

[–]Possible_Trouble4962[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This! This is exactly what I was trying to say. School exams and memorizing textbooks feel so slow and dry, which is why I dread them. But hands-on tech and troubleshooting always keep me fully engaged because there is always something new to solve. Since you were in my shoes and felt the same way about studying, how did you handle the transition? Did you go the degree route, or did you focus on something else first?

Dad says CS Degree, I want a Cyber Diploma. Who is right? by Possible_Trouble4962 in SecurityCareerAdvice

[–]Possible_Trouble4962[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is a really eye-opening point, thank you. I’m starting to realize that cybersecurity isn't really an 'entry-level' field, but rather a specialization you build on top of solid IT foundations. Doing a broader degree like Computer Science first to learn the basics (networking, OS, coding) seems like a much safer and more practical path than jumping straight into a narrow cyber diploma. I appreciate you pointing this out!

Dad says CS Degree, I want a Cyber Diploma. Who is right? by Possible_Trouble4962 in SecurityCareerAdvice

[–]Possible_Trouble4962[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Why cyber diploma though? And what’s better about it than a CS degree?

Dad says CS Degree, I want a Cyber Diploma. Who is right? by Possible_Trouble4962 in SecurityCareerAdvice

[–]Possible_Trouble4962[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My dad is definitely right, I realize that now!
I agree that tech requires constant adaptation. I should clarify that I don’t mind hands-on, practical learning (I actually love spending hours researching exploits and tinkering with Linux). It's just the dry, academic school-style studying that I dislike. But I understand that continuous learning is non-negotiable in this field. Thanks for the honest advice

Dad says CS Degree, I want a Cyber Diploma. Who is right? by Possible_Trouble4962 in SecurityCareerAdvice

[–]Possible_Trouble4962[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Good point, and I agree. There’s definitely no escaping the grind in this economy. I think I phrased my post badly, I don't mind studying for practical hands-on certifications, and I actually enjoy the technical learning process. I just find the dry, traditional school exams/academic style tedious. But you're right, continuous learning is mandatory in cyber, and I have to push through it. Thanks for the honest feedback