Going From Tech Beginner to Cybersecurity Professional with Fullstack Academy

Prospective students are often wondering: Is cybersecurity a hard job to learn?

Embarking on a career change to cybersecurity can be challenging, especially for those starting with little to no technical experience. However, with the right support, dedication, and drive, a rewarding future in cybersecurity is entirely possible. Brandon Kung, a graduate of Fullstack Academy's Cybersecurity Bootcamp, is a prime example of this transformation. His journey from a tech beginner to a burgeoning cybersecurity professional is a testament to the power of an immersive education. Delve into Kung's experience to gain insights into his path, and how you can learn career-ready cybersecurity skills yourself.

Starting Cybersecurity Training With Minimal Tech Knowledge

There is a common misconception that working in cybersecurity requires a 4-year degree. While a degree can be beneficial, many successful cybersecurity professionals have backgrounds in other fields, and gain relevant industry skills outside of traditional higher education. Regardless of educational background, successful cybersecurity professionals should possess a strong analytical mindset, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for protecting digital assets. Despite having minimal technical experience, Kung was able to make a significant leap into cybersecurity.

Fullstack Academy's Cybersecurity Bootcamp offered a fast-paced, hands-on approach that quickly equipped Kung and his classmates with in-demand skills. The rigorous curriculum and immersive learning environment challenged them to think critically and solve problems effectively.

“I had next to zero knowledge, starting essentially from zero. I knew how to navigate things within Windows to a small extent, but I never used [Linux] Command Line a lot outside of checking for internet connectivity with ping requests,” explained Kung.

Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, Kung was able to build a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts and techniques. This included topics such as network security, ethical hacking, and risk management.

The Power of Collaboration & Maximizing Resources

One of the key elements of Kung’s success in bootcamp and on his learning journey was the formation of a solid study group within his cohort. In an accelerated learning environment, having a support system can make a world of difference. Kung’s study group worked diligently to keep pace with the material, leveraging each member’s strengths to overcome challenges and grasp complex concepts.

“The bootcamp was very immersive and hands-on, and we definitely hit the ground running out the gate,” shared Kung. “Thankfully, I was able to form a solid study group within my cohort who I would work with to make sure that we all were keeping pace with learning material. It did seem very accelerated, but our instructors were very understanding if we spoke up about our confusion or gaps in knowledge, and did what they could to get us up to speed.”

Kung’s journey was significantly enriched by the availability of after-class sessions with instructional team members. Though these sessions were optional, they provided a valuable opportunity for students to clarify doubts, deepen their understanding, and receive personalized guidance. For Kung’s study group, these “office hours” became a crucial resource for polishing their knowledge and addressing any lingering confusion.

“The Bootcamp provided a lot of resources and information to engulf myself with cybersecurity,” shared Kung. “I was given the opportunity to not only be led by instructors who were well educated in the field but also learn from others with previous technical backgrounds that proved to be a great resource in understanding basic coding, networking, and IT fundamentals. Though the pace was quick, it was informative and provided ample time to work on certain areas where you could understand enough necessary to transition into the field.”

Advice for Beginners Considering a Bootcamp

Kung also encourages students to embrace their enthusiasm for the subject. Sharing excitement about specific topics with instructors and peers can foster a more engaging and rewarding learning experience. The instructors at Fullstack Academy are passionate about cybersecurity and are eager to support students who are equally enthusiastic about the field.

“Don't be afraid of oversharing if you find any topic or aspect of the curriculum to be intriguing and gets you excited, as your instructors wholeheartedly share the same enthusiasm,” explained Kung.

Kung’s experience at Fullstack Academy’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp illustrates the transformative potential of a well-structured, immersive learning environment. His journey from a tech beginner to a confident cybersecurity graduate highlights the importance of collaboration, resourcefulness, and perseverance. For those contemplating a similar path, Kung’s insights offer valuable guidance: build a strong support network, make the most of available resources, and don’t hesitate to seek help. With dedication and the right tools, a career in cybersecurity is within reach, even for those starting from scratch.