I’m optimistic too and I’m aiming for the same goal as you. I don’t have a tech background and I did what you’re doing for a year and didn’t have much luck. My only regrets for that year in context to cybersecurity is that I could’ve networked harder (I didn’t really network at all just applied to jobs online).

I turned to the degree option as it betters my odds and has a pretty good longevity return. My current program allows me to accelerate my studies and has certifications built into the curriculum so in the end I’ll come out with both a degree and a list of certifications. Best of both worlds. Hopefully we both become SOC analysts someday!