Breaking into cybersecurity can feel overwhelming for beginners. Between choosing certifications, figuring out what skills actually matter, applying to jobs that require “3–5 years of experience,” and navigating an industry full of advice, many aspiring professionals feel like they’ve hit a wall (a firewall, if you will.)
This talk takes a different approach to explaining the early cybersecurity journey, through the lens of teenage-style diary entries from my own experience entering the field. Throughout the session, I’ll share moments from my teenage years in the field, providing attendees with a different perspective of the field.
Each “diary moment” will highlight a lesson learned along the way and translate it into practical advice for beginners. The goal is to demystify the early stages of a cybersecurity career and show that many of the challenges beginners face are shared experiences.
By the end of the session, attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how to start their cybersecurity journey, including how to build hands-on skills, leverage community and mentorship, and use their existing interests and abilities to find their place in the field. This talk is designed for students, career changers, and anyone who has ever wondered if they’re “good enough” to break into cybersecurity.
