7 answers
Aliza
Student
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
1
Question
Asked
534 views
Hi! I'm confused between two major fields. How do i choose what to pursue?
Hi !
I am nearing the end of my degree in computer science in college and im quite confused on what path to take. I don't enjoy development but these days cybersecurity interests me however it is very technical and I'd need further specialization before i get a job in it. On the other hand, i took a ui-ux elective and i find it rather appealing. Now im confused. which path to take? what would suit me more and where would i fit in with my skillset? how do i decide that?
I love solving puzzles and the mystery and allure that comes with cybersecurity yet at the same time, the humanization and creativity outlet in ui-ux is also very very appealing.
7 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1327
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Aliza!
It's totally normal to feel torn between two exciting paths, especially when both spark different sides of your personality. I see you've already gotten some great advice here!
Cybersecurity could absolutely satisfy your love for puzzles and that adrenaline rush of solving mysteries — it's like being a digital detective! It might feel technical at first, but with your computer science background, you're already ahead of the game. Plus, there are so many beginner-friendly certifications (like CompTIA Security+ or Google Cybersecurity Certificate) that can ease you in.
On the other hand, UI/UX taps into your creative, empathetic side — where you're not just building systems, but making life easier and more beautiful for others. It's more about understanding people than lines of code, and that human connection can be super fulfilling.
Here's the secret: You don't have to pick forever right now. Try doing small projects or internships in both fields, like designing a few app mockups for fun or taking a beginner cybersecurity course. Notice which one lights you up more — not just what interests you, but what makes you forget to check the clock.
No matter what, the skills from one will always help you in the other — cybersecurity needs creative thinkers, and UI/UX needs problem solvers.
Listen to your curiosity, test the waters, and trust that whichever path you choose will be the right one because you chose it.
You've got this Aliza, all the best and don't hesitate to reach out! 🤗
It's totally normal to feel torn between two exciting paths, especially when both spark different sides of your personality. I see you've already gotten some great advice here!
Cybersecurity could absolutely satisfy your love for puzzles and that adrenaline rush of solving mysteries — it's like being a digital detective! It might feel technical at first, but with your computer science background, you're already ahead of the game. Plus, there are so many beginner-friendly certifications (like CompTIA Security+ or Google Cybersecurity Certificate) that can ease you in.
On the other hand, UI/UX taps into your creative, empathetic side — where you're not just building systems, but making life easier and more beautiful for others. It's more about understanding people than lines of code, and that human connection can be super fulfilling.
Here's the secret: You don't have to pick forever right now. Try doing small projects or internships in both fields, like designing a few app mockups for fun or taking a beginner cybersecurity course. Notice which one lights you up more — not just what interests you, but what makes you forget to check the clock.
No matter what, the skills from one will always help you in the other — cybersecurity needs creative thinkers, and UI/UX needs problem solvers.
Listen to your curiosity, test the waters, and trust that whichever path you choose will be the right one because you chose it.
You've got this Aliza, all the best and don't hesitate to reach out! 🤗
Thank you so much Dr H!! I definitely am considering trying both but with the pressure of finding a job as soon as I graduate looming ahead, I sometimes feel a bit overwhelmed and under pressure to just figure it out asap
Aliza
Hey Aliza! 🌟
I completely understand how overwhelming that pressure can feel — especially when graduation is right around the corner. It's totally okay not to have everything figured out at once. The fact that you're exploring both paths already shows how thoughtful and self-aware you are.
If you're feeling the clock ticking, maybe start with one small project in each field — nothing too big or time-consuming — just enough to dip your toes in and see what sparks more joy. Even something like designing a simple app interface or trying out a cybersecurity capture-the-flag challenge online can give you a taste without the pressure of full commitment.
Remember, your first job doesn't have to be your forever job — it's just the beginning of your journey.
Dr H
Here is some free resources you can check out without wasting any money.
1. Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate (Free Trial) – Great beginner-friendly course to understand the fundamentals.
👉 https://grow.google/certificates/cybersecurity/
2. TryHackMe – Interactive cybersecurity labs (Start with the "Pre Security" path).
👉 https://tryhackme.com/
3. Cybersecurity Capture The Flag (CTF) – Fun, puzzle-like challenges to test your skills.
👉 https://overthewire.org/wargames/
4. Introduction to Cybersecurity by Cisco
👉 https://www.netacad.com/courses/cybersecurity/introduction-cybersecurity
Dr H
For UI/UX:
.
1. Google UX Design Professional Certificate (Free Trial) – Covers UX fundamentals, wireframing, and prototyping.
👉 https://grow.google/certificates/uxdesign/
.
.
2. Figma Starter Guide – Learn to design user interfaces in Figma (Free for students!).
👉 https://www.figma.com/resources/learn-design/
.
.
3. Adobe XD Crash Course by FreeCodeCamp (YouTube)
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68w2VwalD5w
.
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4. Daily UI Challenges – Small design prompts to build your portfolio.
https://www.dailyui.co/
Dr H
If you're still torn between the two, why not combine both worlds? Cybersecurity also needs UX designers to create user-friendly security interfaces — that's a niche field called "Usable Security" or "Security UX"!
Hope this helps and No pressure to figure it all out right now, Aliza — your journey is unfolding exactly the way it's meant to. Just follow your curiosity and let it lead the way.
.
I'm always here if you need anything! 💪✨
Dr H
Usable Security merges cybersecurity with user-friendly design, ensuring security systems are effective without compromising ease of use. Security UX applies this principle, creating interfaces that guide users through security processes without confusion. Both fields demand technical skill and human-centered design — a rare combination. If you're drawn to both cybersecurity and UI/UX, this niche could align with your skillset.
Your insight on this intersection is valuable, Dr. H.
Sir Flyer
oh my God, thank you so much !! This means a lot!! God Bless you
Aliza
Absolutely, Sir Flyer! You're spot on — Usable Security is such a powerful fusion of tech and human-centered design. It’s one thing to build secure systems, but making them intuitive for everyday users? That's where the magic happens. Thank you so much for sharing this insight — it's a reminder that the best security solutions empower people, not just protect them!
Dr H
Aliza, your excitement is everything! I'm so happy this helped you out. Keep that energy shining — the world needs more passionate minds like yours! God bless you too! ✨
Dr H
Atul Bhankharia
Sales
480
Answers
Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Updated
Atul’s Answer
You're close to finishing your degree in Computer Science, which is a fantastic achievement! Even if software development isn't your passion, there are exciting paths you can explore. Cybersecurity could be a great fit, and it involves some software development as well as data analytics skills. Taking a few courses in these areas before you graduate could open up new opportunities. You might also consider becoming a certified ethical hacker, or perhaps a Product Manager or Program Manager. These roles align well with your interests and can lead to a rewarding career. Keep pushing forward—you're on the right track!
Thank you for the advice, Atul.
Aliza
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
As you approach graduation, you may find yourself at a crossroads between two exciting but different paths. Understanding your core drivers, such as puzzles and mystery (Cybersecurity) and humanization and creativity (UI/UX), can help you make an informed decision. Cybersecurity requires deep technical knowledge in areas like networking, cryptography, and security protocols, while UI/UX combines technical skills with design principles, user research, and psychology.
To decide, take practical steps such as deep diving into cybersecurity, exploring UI/UX further, networking with designers, conducting shadowing and informational interviews, considering hybrid roles, taking short-term projects, and pursuing internships. Trust your gut and consider which field aligns better with your long-term career goals and personal values. Ask yourself key questions, such as which field you feel most passionate about, aligns better with your strengths and weaknesses, offers better career opportunities, and will bring you the most happiness. With a little exploration, you'll find the perfect path for you.
To decide, take practical steps such as deep diving into cybersecurity, exploring UI/UX further, networking with designers, conducting shadowing and informational interviews, considering hybrid roles, taking short-term projects, and pursuing internships. Trust your gut and consider which field aligns better with your long-term career goals and personal values. Ask yourself key questions, such as which field you feel most passionate about, aligns better with your strengths and weaknesses, offers better career opportunities, and will bring you the most happiness. With a little exploration, you'll find the perfect path for you.
Thank you Bright ! I appreciate this
Aliza
Tochi Tony
Freelance copywriter
1
Answer
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Tochi’s Answer
Hi Aliza,
Please go with the one you feel most relaxed with, you are always happy with and know you understand easily, Wish you success
Please go with the one you feel most relaxed with, you are always happy with and know you understand easily, Wish you success
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Aliza
Elena Alvarez
4
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Elena’s Answer
If you love puzzles, cybersecurity makes total sense. But if you’re drawn to creativity, UI/UX is super rewarding too. The best way to figure it out is to actually have experience in a bit of both. Maybe try some cybersecurity challenges like CTF competitions or work on a small UI/UX project, like redesigning an app or website just for fun. You could even look into beginner certifications—CompTIA Security+ for cybersecurity or Google’s UX Design Certificate—to get a better feel for each. You might not even have to pick one over the other! There’s a growing field in cybersecurity UX, where you’d design security products and interfaces that are easy to use. If you’re still feeling stuck, try talking to professionals in both areas, maybe through LinkedIn or networking events. Getting real-life insights from people already working in these fields can help a ton. And if you're still unsure, no rush—sometimes just exploring for a bit longer helps things click into place.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Aliza
Avinash Chandran p
Career Exert
24
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Avinash’s Answer
It’s awesome that you’re considering both cybersecurity and UI/UX—they’re such cool fields!
Cybersecurity: If you love solving puzzles, enjoy technical challenges, and are curious about how systems work (or break), this could be your jam. It’s technical, but your computer science background is a great start. You might need some certifications, but the field is in high demand and super rewarding if you’re into it.
UI/UX Design: If you’re drawn to creativity, empathy, and designing things that people love to use, this might be your calling. It’s less technical but still requires a good understanding of tech and user behavior. Building a portfolio is key here.
How to Decide:
Try Both: Take a short course or do a small project in each field. See which one excites you more.
Self-Reflect: Do you enjoy deep technical work or creative problem-solving more?
Talk to Pros: Reach out to people in both fields and ask about their day-to-day. It’ll give you a clearer picture.
Cybersecurity: If you love solving puzzles, enjoy technical challenges, and are curious about how systems work (or break), this could be your jam. It’s technical, but your computer science background is a great start. You might need some certifications, but the field is in high demand and super rewarding if you’re into it.
UI/UX Design: If you’re drawn to creativity, empathy, and designing things that people love to use, this might be your calling. It’s less technical but still requires a good understanding of tech and user behavior. Building a portfolio is key here.
How to Decide:
Try Both: Take a short course or do a small project in each field. See which one excites you more.
Self-Reflect: Do you enjoy deep technical work or creative problem-solving more?
Talk to Pros: Reach out to people in both fields and ask about their day-to-day. It’ll give you a clearer picture.
Thank you so much Avinash ! I will definitely test the waters here and there.
Aliza
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1978
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to her that you will finish your Computer Science course soon. You should find the career what you have interest instead of market demand.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Speak to the alumni who are working in development or cybersecurity to understand the career more.
2. Seek guidance from professors, your mentor, career counsellor in college
3. Explore intern opportunities working in either development or cybersecurity
4. Decide on the career you would like to pursue
5. Focus on the relevant subject on the career you would like to pursue or consider to consider to take advance course.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Speak to the alumni who are working in development or cybersecurity to understand the career more.
2. Seek guidance from professors, your mentor, career counsellor in college
3. Explore intern opportunities working in either development or cybersecurity
4. Decide on the career you would like to pursue
5. Focus on the relevant subject on the career you would like to pursue or consider to consider to take advance course.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Thank you for the advice, Rebecca.
Aliza
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