My interest in Cybersecurity stems from my overall interest in security. As an analytical problem-solver, I’ve found I am someone who enjoys recognizing and resolving gaps. In my most recent role as a Support Engineer, I discovered my passion for networking and computer systems. Due to this, I’ve slowly begun to realize I’d deeply enjoy a career in the field of Cybersecurity. I want to pursue a career in a cybersecurity organization to help identify threats, manage risk, and close gaps for other companies.

Aspiring cybersecurity individuals like me have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to picking their major. While the Cybersecurity major might be the obvious choice, there are many others that align with careers in cybersecurity. Majors like Computer Engineering, Criminal Justice, Cybercrime, and Database Administration provide a depth of skills and perspectives that could easily support a strong foundation in setting up a career in cybersecurity.
My own experience in engineering has shown me a variety of transferrable skills relating to Cybersecurity. The major of Computer Engineering relates to Cybersecurity due to its primary focus revolving around developing and implementing computer systems. Having a strong understanding of how a computer system is built gives a detailed perspective on where gaps or threats might occur.

Criminal Justice on the other hand, focuses on understanding the legal and compliance aspects of cybersecurity. Criminal Justice is aimed around protecting people and organizations, by identifying and resolving threats. Someone working in the Criminal Justice field of cybersecurity may utilize laws and policies to mitigate risk.

Someone with a Cybercrime major will be found researching and studying past cybercriminal activities. Generating a strong knowledgebase of criminal activity and motivators could help support those in cybersecurity develop stronger controls and defenses.

Database Administration is another strong choice for those interested in cybersecurity as their protection is essential. Databases store tremendously confidential information and due to this, they are valuable targets for cyberattacks. Database administrators offers valuable skills in permission controls, making backups, data breaches; similarly, to Cybersecurity professionals who focus on detecting, recovering, and responding to cyberthreats.