Welcome to the chapter in my journey where I share a story that might resonate with many of you – a tale of balancing multiple roles and aspirations. Each demands its own time and energy. Today, I delve into my life as a part-time penetration tester, a full-time student in artificial intelligence, an aspirant of the OSCP certification, and, the role closest to my heart, a mother. Each day is a lesson in juggling, prioritizing, and thriving amidst a plethora of responsibilities.
Being a Penetration Tester
My professional journey in cybersecurity as a part-time penetration tester presents a stimulating and rewarding challenge. It’s a role that demands attention to detail and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. I tend to work on the same types of tests, internal network, so not every day is different, but I am constantly learning. Taking the OSCP is an opportunity for me to grow my professional knowledge base. Thankfully, my job allows me the flexibility to dedicate work hours to study, creating a blend of professional duties and certification goals.
Computer Science Studies
Alongside my career in cybersecurity, I’m immersed in the rigorous academic world of artificial intelligence. Pursuing a full-time degree in computer science with a focus on artificial intelligence means engaging with a spectrum of complex topics. I’m learning anything from neural networks and machine learning algorithms, to operating systems and computer architecture. This field is as challenging as it is exciting. It pushes me to continually expand my intellectual horizons. Balancing intense coursework and projects is a substantial commitment. It’s a commitment that complements my skills in cybersecurity, molding me into a more versatile tech professional.
Nurturing a Startup Dream Amidst It All
Amidst the whirlwind of activities, there lies another ambition close to my heart – starting my own tech startup. To be completely honest with you, had I come up with my startup idea prior to beginning the OSCP, I would have held off on the certification. But alas, life will do what life will do.
While currently, my time for this endeavor is limited, it remains a significant part of my long-term vision. The dream of building a startup is fueled by my experiences as a mother and the desire to create innovative solutions in the tech space. I dedicate time to this dream in the small pockets of availability, often during weekends or late at night. This endeavor, though progressing slowly, is an integral part of my journey.
OSCP Preparation: A Testament to Passion and Perseverance
Preparing for the OSCP is a journey that tests the limits of my mental strength. Renowned for its difficulty and practical focus, the OSCP certification demands a deep understanding of penetration testing principles and hands-on problem-solving skills. My approach to OSCP preparation is structured and intensive. It involved a deep dive into the vast syllabus, covering a wide range of topics from network scanning and vulnerability analysis to exploitation and post-exploitation techniques. I’ve already made my way through all the OffSec provided training material, but I am still learning every day with external articles and videos.
The labs, particularly, are both the most challenging and rewarding aspects of the preparation. They require patience, persistence, and a problem-solving mindset, often pushing me to my limits. It’s a path that is as demanding as it is rewarding. One of the biggest challenges in preparing for the OSCP is the sheer volume of material and the level of skill required. Balancing this with a full-time computer science course and personal commitments means that I often find myself studying during odd hours, sacrificing weekends, and utilizing any free time I can find.
Post-OSCP: A Shift in Focus
Looking ahead, I have a clear plan for once I pass the OSCP exam.
Completing the certification will not only mark a significant milestone in my professional development but also signal a shift in my focus. With the OSCP achievement under my belt, I intend to dedicate more time and energy to my startup. The skills and confidence gained from the OSCP preparation will undoubtedly contribute to the success of this venture. I plan to delve deeper into the startup world, focusing on developing a viable product, seeking funding, and building a team.
The prospect of immersing myself more fully in the startup ecosystem is very exciting. I envision leveraging my technical expertise, combined with the insights gained from my AI studies and cybersecurity experience, to create a venture that addresses a meaningful gap in the tech market. The journey of bringing an idea to life, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and making an impact through technology is a path I eagerly anticipate.
Strategies That Have Worked for Me
- Structured Schedule: I maintain a structured schedule that delineates clear times for work, study, and family. This helps me stay focused and efficient in each role. I have meticulously allocated specific hours for each of my roles. This structured approach helps in compartmentalizing my day, ensuring that I can focus entirely on the task at hand. For instance, early mornings are reserved for OSCP study, afternoons are dedicated to work, and evenings and weekends are for coursework. This clear demarcation helps in avoiding overlap and ensures that I am fully present in each aspect of my life.
- OSCP Study During Work Hours: Leveraging my job hours for OSCP prep is a game-changer. It allows me to integrate hands-on penetration testing experiences with my certification goals. My job as a penetration tester naturally complements my OSCP studies. It’s an opportunity that allows me to kill two birds with one stone – excelling at my job while preparing for the certification. This integration is carefully balanced to ensure that my work responsibilities are not compromised, and the OSCP study is in line with my professional objectives.
- Quality over Quantity: In a world where there’s always more to do, I’ve learned that focusing on quality rather than quantity yields better results. With limited time at my disposal, I prioritize focused, uninterrupted sessions of study and work over prolonged hours that could lead to inefficiency and burnout. Whether it’s a 30-minute deep dive or a one-hour session, I ensure that each moment spent is maximized for effectiveness.
- Self-Care: The demands of balancing multiple roles can take a toll on both mental and physical health. Recognizing this, I place a high priority on self-care. It’s a non-negotiable element of my routine. This includes regular physical exercise. Adequate sleep and a balanced diet are also crucial components of my self-care regimen. I’ve found that taking care of my well-being not only boosts my productivity but also enhances my overall quality of life.
Conclusion
Balancing work, life, and OSCP preparation is like walking a tightrope, requiring focus, dedication, and, most importantly, a clear understanding of one’s priorities. It’s a challenging yet rewarding experience that I believe will not only enhance my professional skills but also enrich my personal growth.
To everyone out there juggling multiple roles while pursuing your goals, remember, it’s about finding what works for you and embracing the journey, one day at a time. As I share these experiences through my blog, my aim is not just to document my journey but also to inspire and encourage others who may find themselves in similar situations. Whether it’s juggling multiple roles, pursuing professional certifications, or balancing personal and professional commitments, the key is to embrace the complexity and find joy in the journey.
Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I look forward to sharing more insights and experiences. If you would like to keep up with my OSCP journey week by week, click here for week one.
