Today, I want to share with you a significant decision I’ve recently made. I’ve decided to momentarily pause the development of my startup to focus on the OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) certification. This decision wasn’t easy, considering the passion and effort I’ve invested in my startup idea. However, certain circumstances have necessitated this temporary shift in focus.
The decision to prioritize the OSCP certification over my startup development wasn’t one I took lightly. This choice stemmed from a careful evaluation of both immediate and long-term benefits, as well as an understanding of the commitment required to excel in this challenging certification.
Prioritizing the OSCP: A Costly Investment and A Personal Challenge
When I enrolled in the OSCP course back in August 2023, I was well aware of its cost – a substantial $2000. This investment was more than a monetary commitment. It was a declaration of my dedication to advancing my penetration testing skills. My current job offers a reimbursement for the course, but only if I pass the exam. This condition adds a financial incentive to the already personal and professional motivations. The thought of not only losing out on this reimbursement but also having the financial burden of the course fee adds weight to the importance of passing the exam.
Beyond the financial implications, the OSCP represents a personal challenge to me. It’s an opportunity to prove my capabilities in a notoriously challenging field. Passing this exam would significantly enhance my confidence as a cybersecurity professional.
In the context of my career trajectory, the OSCP certification aligns perfectly with my goals. The knowledge and skills gained from this certification are incredibly relevant and valuable, not just in my current role as a penetration tester but also in the broader scope of the cybersecurity field. The certification would open new doors, provide opportunities for advancement, and position me as a more competitive player in the tech industry.
The Practicalities of Startup Development
Developing a startup, especially in the tech sector, is a complex and time-intensive endeavor. It demands undivided attention, from ideation and market research to product development and scaling. Given the intensive nature of the OSCP preparation, I realized that dividing my focus might lead to suboptimal outcomes in both areas. This pause is thus a practical approach to ensuring that when I return to my startup, I can do so with full dedication and enhanced expertise.
As I look towards the future, I am excited about the prospect of resuming my startup journey with new insights and enhanced skills post-OSCP. This certification will not only add credibility but also depth to my technical expertise, directly benefiting the development and security aspects of my startup. The pause, therefore, is not a halt but rather a strategic detour on the roadmap of my entrepreneurial journey.
Scheduled Exam and the Road Ahead
In these crucial months leading up to the exam, my preparation has entered its most intensive phase. The OSCP exam is known for its practical, hands-on approach, demanding a deep understanding of penetration testing methodologies and the ability to apply them under pressure. My days are now heavily focused on honing these practical skills, spending long hours in lab environments, and simulating real-world penetration testing scenarios.
Fears and Apprehensions: Forgetting What I’ve Built
One of my biggest concerns with this pause is the fear of losing touch with my startup’s codebase. I’ve been coding the app in Swift, and stepping away for a few months raises the fear that I might forget the intricacies of what I’ve written or lose fluency in the syntax. However, I believe that the foundational knowledge and logic I’ve developed will remain with me, and I can quickly reacquaint myself with the specifics once I resume.
Fortunately, I don’t anticipate a similar issue with Python, which I use for my AI algorithms. I’ll be actively using Python in my machine learning and deep learning courses at school during this semester, ensuring that my skills in this language stay sharp.
Conclusion: A Temporary Sacrifice for Long-Term Gain
This decision to pause my startup is not a step back but rather a strategic repositioning for future success. The skills and accreditation from the OSCP will significantly contribute to the technical strength of my startup. Additionally, the discipline and focus I am cultivating during this period are qualities that will undoubtedly benefit me as an entrepreneur.
As I navigate through this phase, I am reminded that sometimes, taking a step back is necessary to leap forward. I am eagerly looking forward to returning to my startup with fresh insights, renewed energy, and a prestigious certification under my belt.
Thank you for being a part of my journey. Stay tuned for more updates, and here’s to embracing every step of our journeys, no matter how unexpected they may be.
