Are you a recent graduate of a bachelor’s in cybersecurity or computer science and unsure what to do next? Are you struggling to enter the cybersecurity industry as a cyber professional, or underqualified for your dream job? Compiled here are four suggestions that can help you elevate your resume, skill set, and professional direction for a career in cybersecurity.
1. Pursue a master’s or doctoral program.
Pursuing a master’s or doctoral program is always a great first step for college graduates. Boise State offers five master’s degrees and two PhD programs, which provides opportunities to dive deeper into specific aspects of the cyber-world with programs such as the Master of Science in Cyber Operations and Resilience, or a Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical and Computer Engineering. If you are looking for a shorter program, consider one of our many graduate cybersecurity certificates or industry certifications.
2. Apply for an internship.
Another fantastic pathway open to graduates is the world of internships. The Institute’s Cyberdome program hires students from a variety of universities across Idaho and from all degree types, ranging from associate, bachelor’s, master’s and PhD candidates. Our student interns provide cybersecurity services to rural community members across Idaho. Interns from this program gain six-months of real-world cybersecurity experience, help protect Idaho from cyber-attacks, and leave the program better prepared for a career in cybersecurity.
3. Stay in touch with faculty members.
Whether you graduated from Boise State or another institution, the professors that taught your undergraduate classes could provide a jump-start for new opportunities post-graduation. Many professors want to see their students succeed and could provide opportunities to participate in their research (yes, faculty conduct research!) or a letter of recommendation for your next job application. Faculty members can provide a key connection for your post-graduation success, and reaching out through email could open new doors within the cyber-field.
4. Network with industry professionals.
Networking with industry professionals can provide a multitude of opportunities. Finding avenues around you for professional connections like LinkedIn or the alumni of your institution can provide opportunities for informational interviews or job offers down the line. Attending professional events, such as the recent Idaho Tech Council’s Cyber Summit co-hosted by the Institute, can provide opportunities to talk with seasoned industry professionals. When you pursue collaborations with these professionals, you open yourself up to gain insight outside of the academic realm and advance your understanding of what it means to be a cyber professional.
Entering the cybersecurity industry doesn’t have to be difficult. These four avenues can help you feel confident stepping out into a career in cybersecurity and pursuing knowledge with conviction. Stay connected to more cyber-related information by following the Institute for Pervasive Cybersecurity on LinkedIn and Instagram.