I first started working through the Open Source Society University (OSSU) curriculum back in 2020 when the pandemic hit. At the time, I wasn’t able to focus on it consistently, so I decided to work on a project to see if I was interested enough in computers to keep going.
That project was a hobby operating system. Building it helped me realize that I really did enjoy programming and technology, and it gave me a taste of what it’s like to work on a software project as part of a team.
After that, I completed Python for Everybody from OSSU, followed by the 6.001x Introduction to Computer Science course on edX, which helped me get comfortable with the basics of programming.
Eventually, I joined a bootcamp because I knew I needed to focus on practical skills that could help me land a job. OSSU is a fantastic resource for building a well-rounded foundation in computer science, but it isn’t primarily geared toward career preparation.
I’m now combining the bootcamp knowledge with plans to earn the CCNA and other cybersecurity certifications, while continuing to work through OSSU to deepen my understanding. My goal is to build an education that is both well-rounded and directly applicable to a successful career in cybersecurity.
I expect this journey will take a decade or more to reach the level of mastery I’m aiming for—and I’m okay with that.
Phase 1 – Basic Networking and Programming Skills
- Complete the CCNA
- Finish Core Programming courses from OSSU
- Continue bug bounty hunting as a hobby and learning opportunity
- Contribute to open-source projects and pursue client work
Phase 2 – Systems, Pentesting, and Technology Ethics
- Earn the CPTS Certification (Certified Penetration Testing Specialist)
- Complete Core Systems coursework from OSSU
- Consider tackling Core Math (a longer-term objective)
- Study technology ethics, either through OSSU or faith-based resources
Looking further ahead, there will definitely be additional phases. I’d like to grow SkyzSecurity as either a project or a business, and ultimately land a fulfilling role in security engineering.
I also plan to study web security more deeply. Recently, I discovered open-source projects like Nextcloud and Rocket.Chat, which I’d love to contribute to. My education is going to stay flexible and focused on learning enough to make a real-world impact—whether that’s through community projects, client work, or a full-time position down the line.
