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How can I get into/prepare for a career in cybersecurity as a 10th grader?

Should I look into internships, jobs, classes, certificates? Is there any recommended ways of learning cybersecurity online? What are cybersecurity companies (or anyone hiring for cybersecurity) looking for in applicants?

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Rakesh’s Answer

Hey Moses,

Starting early in 10th grade is a great way to set yourself up for a successful career in cybersecurity. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for a career in cybersecurity at this stage:

1. Develop a strong foundation in STEM subjects: Focus on building a solid understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. Take challenging courses in computer science, mathematics, and physics. These subjects provide a strong foundation for cybersecurity.

2. Learn programming languages: Start learning programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++. Programming skills are essential in cybersecurity as they enable you to understand and manipulate code, identify vulnerabilities, and develop security solutions.

3. Explore online resources and courses: Take advantage of the numerous online resources and courses available for learning cybersecurity. Websites like Coursera, and Udemy offer introductory courses specifically designed for beginners. These courses will introduce you to the basics of cybersecurity and help you understand the concepts and terminology.

4. Join cybersecurity clubs or organizations: Look for cybersecurity clubs or organizations in your school or community. These groups often offer hands-on activities, workshops, and competitions that can help you gain practical experience and network with like-minded individuals.

5. Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions: CTF competitions are a fun and engaging way to develop your cybersecurity skills. Many CTF platforms have challenges suitable for beginners. Participating in CTFs will help you learn problem-solving techniques, gain exposure to real-world scenarios, and improve your technical abilities.

6. Volunteer for cybersecurity projects: Seek out opportunities to volunteer for cybersecurity-related projects or initiatives. This could involve assisting your school or local organization with securing their digital assets, raising awareness about cybersecurity best practices, or helping others stay safe online.

7. Stay informed and curious: Stay updated with the latest cybersecurity news, trends, and technologies. Follow cybersecurity blogs, news websites, and social media accounts to stay informed about current threats and advancements in the field. Cultivate a curious mindset and continuously seek to learn and explore new concepts.

8. Seek mentorship and guidance: Reach out to professionals in the cybersecurity industry for mentorship and guidance. Connect with local cybersecurity professionals or use online platforms to find mentors who can provide insights, advice, and support as you navigate your cybersecurity journey.

Remember, building a career in cybersecurity requires dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for technology and problem-solving. Starting early and taking proactive steps to develop your skills and knowledge will give you a head start in this exciting field.

Good luck.

Rakesh
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Hasnain’s Answer

It's fantastic that you're thinking about a career in cybersecurity at such an early stage. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started and prepare for a career in cybersecurity as a 10th grader:

𝟭. 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
Math and Science: Focus on building a strong foundation in mathematics and science. Cybersecurity involves concepts from these areas.

𝟮. 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗰 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀:
Familiarize yourself with basic computer skills and operating systems. Understand how networks and the internet work.

𝟯. 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀:
Start learning a programming language. Python is highly recommended for beginners in cybersecurity. It's versatile and widely used in the field.

𝟰. 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝘀:
Utilize online platforms like Codecademy, Udacity, and Coursera for cybersecurity courses. Look for beginner-friendly courses to build your knowledge.

𝟱. 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗹𝗮𝗴 (𝗖𝗧𝗙) 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀:
Engage in Capture the Flag challenges on platforms like Hack The Box or OverTheWire. These platforms provide hands-on, gamified cybersecurity challenges.

𝟲. 𝗖𝘆𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀:
Consider pursuing entry-level certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Cisco's CCNA Cyber Ops. These certifications validate foundational cybersecurity knowledge.

𝟳. 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗖𝘆𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀:
Join online communities like Reddit's r/cybersecurity or cybersecurity forums. Engage with professionals and enthusiasts to learn from their experiences.

𝟴. 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝘆𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:
Look for local or online cybersecurity competitions for students. Participation in these events can enhance your skills and provide valuable experience.

𝟵. 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴:
Attend cybersecurity conferences, webinars, or local meetups if possible. Networking can open doors to mentorship and valuable connections.

𝟭𝟬. 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝘆𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗧𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀:
Familiarize yourself with cybersecurity tools like Wireshark, Nmap, and Metasploit.

𝟭𝟭. 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝘀:
Seek out internship opportunities or summer programs related to cybersecurity.

𝟭𝟮. 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗱:
Stay updated on cybersecurity news and trends through blogs, podcasts, and news outlets.

𝟭𝟯. 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗮 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗯:
Set up a home lab to practice your skills using virtualization software like VirtualBox or VMware.

𝟭𝟰. 𝗦𝗼𝗳𝘁 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀:
Develop soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.

𝟭𝟱. 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:
Cybersecurity has various specializations. Explore areas like ethical hacking, incident response, or security analysis.

𝟭𝟲. 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝘂𝗿𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
Consider pursuing higher education in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field.

𝟭𝟳. 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗮𝗻 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲:
Showcase your skills and projects on platforms like GitHub.

𝟭𝟴. 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗺:
Emphasize ethical behavior and professionalism.

𝟭𝟵. 𝗖𝘆𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗝𝗼𝗯 𝗥𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀:
Research cybersecurity companies and review their job requirements.

𝟮𝟬. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴:
Cultivate a mindset of continuous learning to stay current with industry developments.

Remember, the journey into cybersecurity is a gradual process, and persistence is key. As you progress, you'll gain a deeper understanding of specific areas within cybersecurity that align with your interests and strengths. Good luck on your cybersecurity journey!
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Eddy’s Answer

It's amazing that you are interested in cybersecurity. Some of the things you can you includes diving into online platforms like Coursera and Udacity to find engaging courses on cybersecurity basics. You can also challenge yourself with fun and interactive capture the flag games to develop hands-on skills. You can also browse some cybersecurity forums that will help you learn new skills and interact with others who are passionate in the same fields. Keep your passion alive, stay curious, and I wish you all the best!
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JT’s Answer

Excellent query! CyberSecurity is an outstanding and dynamic field with a lot of versatility. To boost your skills, consider seeking internships in CyberSecurity. Self-learning platforms such as YouTube, Udemy, and Guru99 can be your best allies for gaining knowledge. Additionally, earning the Security+ certification can be a great starting point in your journey.
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Jesse’s Answer

Hello Moses,

I recently earned a certificate in Networking and Cybersecurity from Georgia Tech University. I can provide you with some basic insight on how to get started, even as a 10th grader! You definitely want to pursue the certificate route for fast entry into this massively growing field. SAANS Institute and CompTIA Security plus certificate is definitely the way to go. Here are my basic suggestions:

Learn the Basics of Computer Science: Understand the fundamentals of computers, including how they work, basic programming, and operating systems. Online courses or your school's computer science classes can be a great start.

Study Cybersecurity Basics: Start with the basics of cybersecurity, such as understanding malware, firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption. There are many free resources and introductory courses available online.

Develop Programming Skills: Cybersecurity professionals often need good programming skills. Learning languages like Python, JavaScript, or C++ can be very helpful.

Participate in Cybersecurity Competitions: Look for competitions like CyberPatriot or CTF (Capture The Flag) challenges that are designed for high school students. These competitions provide real-world cybersecurity challenges to solve.

Stay Updated on Technology News: Cybersecurity is a fast-evolving field. Stay informed about the latest trends and threats in the world of technology and cybersecurity.

Build a Home Lab: Set up a safe environment at home where you can experiment with computer networks and security practices. This could be as simple as setting up a few virtual machines on an old computer.

Seek Out Mentoring and Networking Opportunities: Try to connect with professionals in the field. They can provide valuable insights and advice. This can be done through online communities, local tech groups, or even LinkedIn.

Consider Certifications: While you're still in high school, you might not be able to get professional certifications yet, but you can start preparing for them. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ are well-regarded in the industry.

Engage in Online Learning Communities: Platforms like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and cybersecurity forums are great places to learn from others, share your knowledge, and get involved in projects.

Practice Ethical Behavior: It's crucial to understand the ethics involved in cybersecurity. Always practice responsible and ethical behavior in all your cybersecurity activities.

Remember, the field of cybersecurity is vast and encompasses many different specialties. As you learn more, you might find yourself drawn to a particular area like network security, ethical hacking, or cryptography. Pursue what interests you the most!
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Farai’s Answer

Some great advice already provided. I think what's key is the foundation / education in Math & Science / Computer Science. In addition, signing up for newsletters in the cybersecurity field. There are a lot of different areas such as forensics, threat hunting, audit & policies, assurance. Different interests might gravitate to different areas of the field. I think the most important thing is what do you enjoy doing and enjoy learning about and don't consider it "work" - that's how you know it is something you are truly passionate about.
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Farai’s Answer

The guidance given so far has been excellent. The cornerstone of your journey should be a solid education in Mathematics, Science, and Computer Science. It's also a good idea to subscribe to newsletters that focus on cybersecurity. This field is vast, with numerous specializations like forensics, threat hunting, audit and policies, and assurance. Your personal interests will naturally draw you towards certain areas. The key is to find what you truly love doing and learning about. When it doesn't feel like "work", that's when you know you've found your true passion.
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Edmond’s Answer

My only addition to the excellent feedback by others is decide which area of cybersecurity would be a better fit for your skills, talents and aptitude. Do you like hands on investigation, management, coding, policy and law, etc. Start with the following two:
1) "Career Options" section of https://niccs.cisa.gov/education-training/cybersecurity-students
2) "How to get started: Cybersecurity for K-12" section of https://cybersecurityguide.org/resources/k-12-guide/

Next check out in-person meetings of cybersecurity non-profits in your area - most have local chapters and are free and/or free for students. That would give you an opportunity to network, meet professionals in the field and learn first hand about their individual fields pros/cons, find internship opportunities, etc. Some of these organizations are ISSA (issa.org), OWASP (owasp.org), ISC2 (isc2.org) and ISACA (isaca.org), etc.

Communication skills (both written/oral) have helped me immensely - now is the best time to focus and develop them.

Some more resources:
1) cisa.gov, sign up for their newsletters and material that's designed for younger audiences
2) try your hand in programming at https://hourofcode.com/us

best of luck
-edmond
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Samuel’s Answer

I'm a huge proponent of self-study and security certifications as an avenue to enter a new career. Local libraries have a plethora of books on the subject and many books that will guide you through certification preparation. My recommendation is not to just study for the certification but learn the material thoroughly. This will allow you to connect concepts easier and broader your ability to show your capabilities within the field.

Work on identifying ways to add experience like volunteering at local nonprofits and schools. When you combine certifications and some experience /OJT (on the job training), your changes or attracting interest of companies skyrocket. Target your job search to "Junior" or "Entry level" positions at companies.

Best of luck on your upcoming career endeavors.

Sam
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Virgil’s Answer

Hey there Moses! YouTube is a treasure trove when it comes to high-quality videos on cybersecurity. They're a great starting point and they even offer extra resources for you to explore. Brighttalk is another fantastic platform you might want to check out, and LinkedIn can be pretty handy too. If you're interested in penetration testing, then Offensive Security is your go-to place. They've got loads of information and even offer some classes and certifications.

Now, when it comes to job opportunities, it really hinges on your area of interest. The good news is that there are heaps of cybersecurity companies out there and they're always on the lookout for skilled professionals like you!

In terms of certifications, the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a well-rounded one that you might want to consider. If you're leaning towards penetration testing, then the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) could be right up your alley. While these certifications can certainly boost your appeal to employers, remember they're not a replacement for hands-on experience. Take the time to discover what you enjoy - be it classes, college courses, or something else - and then dive deeper into those areas.

Best of luck on your journey!
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Jessica’s Answer

Hi!

The advice given so far is wonderful. I definitely agree with Edmond's answer about narrowing down your focus in terms of what area of cybersecurity you may be interested in. Narrowing this down can also help you in terms of determining skills you already have that are applicable or transferrable into these areas but also what areas you may need to develop. https://www.cyberseek.org/pathway.html is a great resource for looking into the various pathways you can take within cyber!

Another great way to gain some insight can be through podcasts or websites such as CyberNews, CyberScoop, The Verge, etc. Depending on if or where you attend college as well, there are typically on-campus groups that you can join to take part in additional learning, networking and hands-on exercises!
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