This is a guest post written by Jose from Texas. He became a National Cyber Scholar through CyberStart America.

“CyberStart offers you a friendly introduction to cybersecurity that could help you discover your interest for the subject.”

Jose discusses how CyberStart America sparked his interest in cybersecurity and what becoming a Scholar means to him.

What made you want to compete in CyberStart America?

I was first introduced to CyberStart by my cybersecurity teacher; at the time, I had some exposure to CTFs but had never formally participated in one before. After learning more about the program, the way the challenges were presented and the scholarship opportunities available, I was convinced CyberStart America (CSA) was an amazing opportunity and I started investing my time in the program.

💡 Learn more about CyberStart’s free programs in this blog.

How did you feel about becoming a Scholar in the competition?

Finding out I made it as a Scholar was exciting news. This accomplishment has helped me feel more comfortable with my abilities, and it has motivated me to keep learning and researching the vast field of cybersecurity.

How would you describe CyberStart America to other students?

💡 “CyberStart will guide you from the very basics all the way to dealing with real-life vulnerabilities.”

If you have a passion for problem-solving, challenges and puzzles, then you’ll love CyberStart. Even if you don’t have experience in computer science, CyberStart will guide you from the very basics all the way to dealing with real-life vulnerabilities. CyberStart offers you a friendly introduction to cybersecurity that could help you discover your interest for the subject.

Do you have plans to continue your cybersecurity studies?

Definitely! Cybersecurity is so interesting and fascinating. Thanks to the ever-changing nature of technology, I’m certain there will always be something new to learn.

Before participating in CyberStart America, were you considering a career in cybersecurity?

Even though I already had a passion for computer science, I was not considering a career in cybersecurity.

Since participating in CyberStart America, are you now considering a career in cybersecurity?

Yes! All the exposure of CSA has sparked my interest in the field, which has led me to consider the different career opportunities in cybersecurity.

Want to win a scholarship to further cybersecurity training like Jose? Start your journey with realistic cybersecurity challenges from CyberStart.