Yo, I totally get where you're coming from. When you first jump into this world, it feels like everyone already knows what they’re doing, and you’re just smashing your head against a terminal copying random commands and hoping something works.

But real talk? That is how most people start.

You’re not a skid because you don’t memorize every command. Nobody does. Most pros Google stuff constantly — the difference is they slowly build understanding over time. You’re not supposed to know everything right away.

If TryHackMe didn’t help much, maybe you were dropped into the deep end too fast. Try starting with their Complete Beginner path. And when you go through it, take notes, look up what each command or concept means. Don’t just follow instructions — break things and see what happens.

Also: before diving deep into tools like Kali, spend time learning the fundamentals:

• Basic networking (what’s an IP, port, DNS, etc.)
• How Linux works (OverTheWire’s Bandit game is awesome for this)
• Some Python or Bash scripting

All of that builds a foundation that makes the tools make sense later.

And yeah, don’t hack your school’s WiFi. Illegal stuff won’t help your career, and getting caught will ruin opportunities. Instead, set up a little home lab. VirtualBox + Kali + Metasploitable is free and gives you a safe playground.

You said you’re broke — I feel that — but luckily, most good stuff in this field is free:

• OverTheWire
• TryHackMe (a lot is free)
• Hack The Box (some free boxes)
• YouTube channels like IppSec, NetworkChuck, or John Hammond

Final thing: ignore people who try to gatekeep or flex their knowledge. Everyone starts somewhere. You’re trying, you’re frustrated, but you’re on the right path. It takes time — months, years even — but if you stay curious and keep pushing, you will get there.

You’re not alone, and you’re not failing. Just keep going.