I am a seasoned security professional with extensive experience, which began around the age of 14 or 15. My journey started with hacking on Yahoo, a time when direct attacks between users were common.
During that era, tools like booters and mass ignore were prevalent, accompanied by subpar security measures. After repeatedly being outsmarted and losing screen names, I was picked up by the r3ap3r_s0ld13rs, acquiring skills that would later define my career in cybersecurity.
Chatroom 'fight krews', engaged in constant battles for dominance, employed tactics such as booting, mass ignore, keylogging, and trojan attacks(Modern Day termed RATS) against each other and it was hacker vs hacker, krew verse krew. As an eager learner, I explored various toolsets, including Sub7, Optix Pro, and Bros Team viruses, which were effective against older, signature-based antivirus software.
This period was challenging, but once I mastered the landscape and adopted the 'reaper' tag, I was never compromised again. This was all before the advent of captcha, when system vulnerabilities were more easily exploited. Fast forward to 2012, as chatrooms faded, I shifted my focus to music, until the birth of my daughter prompted a change.
Driven by the desire to make a positive impact, I decided to pursue formal education in cybersecurity, aiming to apply my real-world experiences of hacking and being hacked in the industry.
Embarking on an educational journey later than most, the path I navigated through academia was anything but conventional. Beginning with the crucial step of obtaining my GED, I set the foundation for what would become a rigorous yet rewarding academic and professional odyssey. This initial challenge, rather than deterring me, fueled my determination to not only catch up but excel in my chosen field of technology. Over the span of seven years, my academic pursuits encompassed three distinct yet interrelated degrees, each contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the tech world.
My first foray into higher education led me to a degree in Computer Information Systems (CIS) programming, where I was introduced to the intricate world of coding and software development. My passion for technology and my commitment to excellence were evident in my academic performance, as I maintained a consistent 4.0 GPA in all my technology-related courses. This initial success laid the groundwork for my next challenge: a degree in Network Administration. Here, I delved into the complexities of networking, enriched by specialized Cisco classes that offered a deep dive into the world of network configuration and management. This endeavor not only expanded my technical knowledge but also honed my skills in a critical area of IT infrastructure.
The intersection of these two degrees with a focus on Cyber Security bridged the gap between programming and network administration, introducing me to the critical policies and practices essential for safeguarding digital information. The comprehensive coverage of these areas provided me with a well-rounded foundation in technology, preparing me for the challenges of the cybersecurity landscape.
Throughout my academic journey, I was honored to join prestigious honor societies such as Phi Theta Kappa and Sigma Alpha Pi, recognitions that reflected my dedication to academic excellence and leadership. These affiliations not only enriched my educational experience but also connected me with a network of like-minded individuals who shared my passion for technology and excellence.
The culmination of my academic and extracurricular achievements paved the way for my entry into the security operations center (SOC) sector, where I applied my diverse skill set to tackle real-world cybersecurity challenges. The practical knowledge and theoretical understanding I gained from my degrees proved invaluable, allowing me to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity with confidence.
One of the most notable milestones in my professional development was passing the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) exam. This achievement, requiring a medium level of effort thanks to my well-rounded foundation, underscored my proficiency in cybersecurity and my ability to meet industry-recognized standards of excellence.
My journey through college, marked by late starts, relentless catch-up, and eventual triumphs across three degrees, is a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. From obtaining my GED to excelling in the fields of CIS programming, network administration, and cybersecurity, my academic and professional path reflects a deep-seated commitment to mastering the technology that drives our world forward.
Hopefully the projects and resources inspire like minded minds to attempt to pursue dreams of their own.
I'm currently deepening my expertise in cybersecurity, focusing on areas critical to understanding and advancing in the field. My journey includes pursuing the Offensive Security Certified Expert 3 (OSCE3) certification, reflecting my dedication to advanced penetration testing techniques. Alongside, I'm enhancing my skills in malware development through courses at Maldev Academy, and developing command and control (C2) frameworks with Zero Point Security, using C# for its versatility in cybersecurity applications.
My hands-on experience is further broadened by engaging with Hack The Box Academy, where I tackle practical challenges that sharpen my problem-solving skills in a dynamic learning environment. This practical approach is vital for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Looking forward, I plan to explore hardware hacking and participate in advanced training with Sektor7 and Zero Point Security’s Certified Red Team Operator courses. These steps are aimed at broadening my understanding of both the digital and physical aspects of cybersecurity threats and defenses.
Additionally, I'm gearing up to dive into Windows internals through CyberWarFare.live, essential for mastering the complexities of Windows environments that are often targeted in cyber attacks. My ultimate goal is to achieve the Offensive Security Exploitation Expert (OSEE) certification, marking a high level of proficiency in exploiting complex systems and environments.
This focused approach to my cybersecurity education is designed to build a comprehensive skill set, enabling me to tackle modern cyber threats effectively and contribute meaningfully to the security of digital infrastructures.