Building Cybersecurity Skills as a Beginner: Dylan Morris’ Journey with Fullstack Academy

Dylan Morris set his sights on starting a career in cybersecurity with little to no prior experience. His journey with the Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamp showcases how a dedicated learner, even as a beginner, can secure the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to confidently prepare for a cybersecurity career.

Entering the Cybersecurity Field

Dylan appreciated how the cybersecurity bootcamp was accessible for newcomers.

“I had little to no experience working in this field before attending the bootcamp," he admits. “Even things like Word or Excel I didn't have full knowledge of," he explains.

Approaching such a complex field with minimal prior exposure might seem daunting, but his experience highlights how the Fullstack Academy Cyber Bootcamp caters to individuals at various skill levels.

Finding Support in Bootcamp

As a beginner, Dylan found the bootcamp to be incredibly supportive and encouraging towards learning.

“[I had an] amazing experience with the Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamp," he states. “They do a great job of moving the class at a pace that works for both more knowledgeable individuals and beginners."

This inclusive approach ensured that no one was left behind. He emphasizes the wealth of resources available when facing challenges.

“If there was ever a time I didn't understand something, there were so many resources to find my answer," he recalls.

Dylan received support in the bootcamp that empowered him to navigate complex topics and build a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles. “By the end of the program, I felt like I had been given all the knowledge and tools to find any answer I may need in the field," he says.

Gaining Confidence With Tech Skills

Dylan found that learning some of the technical skills required patience and diligent practice.

“With something like Python or scripting, there's always going to be some sort of learning curve, especially if you are just a beginner, such as myself. But the more practice and help you reach out for, like in office hours, the better someone will get," he advises.

Dylan also appreciated the collaborative learning environment, mentioning, “I received support from classmates and instructors, everyone was helpful in reaching my next level".

The bootcamp's emphasis on practical application, particularly with industry-standard tools, was also a significant benefit. Dylan explains, “The experience with tools/apps like Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit, etc—those are the tools/apps we will be using frequently in the field, and with the help of the bootcamp, I feel confident that I have the baseline knowledge to succeed."

Advice for Aspiring Cyber Professionals

Dylan's journey demonstrates that a lack of prior experience is not a barrier to entering the cybersecurity field, especially with the right training and support.

As he aptly puts it, “Even if it might seem daunting, it is not as difficult as it may seem. If you stick with it, a lot of it will make sense down the line. By the time the bootcamp ends, and you have put in the work, you will feel confident in your abilities to enter the field."

Dylan’s story encourages anyone considering a cybersecurity career to reach for their goals.

Ready to start your own journey into cybersecurity? Learn about the Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamp and apply today.