Paving the way for yourself to make a major life change can be daunting, but gratifying. Just ask Amber Zufelt, who made a complete shift into an entirely new field, where both the day-to-day work and the additional benefits are more rewarding. How was she able to make this change? We spoke to Amber about her experiences before, during, and after taking a cybersecurity bootcamp — as well as how they’ve impacted her life now!
Prior to enrolling in her program, Amber was working at a debt collection firm, but also in the middle of the path of self-exploration. And it was while on that path that she came to the realization a career in cybersecurity was the right move for her. “I’ve always loved computers,” she said, and “it just sounded like the obvious next step in my journey of self discovery.”
Following this path, though, required training. And so Amber decided to enroll in a cybersecurity bootcamp offered through the University of Utah. But then the next question arose — how to pay for it? That’s where Climb came in.
Two things Climb prides itself on, and that Amber appreciated, are accessibility and transparency. When discussing why she ultimately opted for a Climb Loan, she said: “It was easy and very up front with the terms and interest … [The application process was] super easy; I had it done in less than half an hour.” So now, with financing secured, it was time to focus on her bootcamp.
According to Amber, one of the most valuable skills she learned while in her program was Linux, an open source operating system that’s established itself as an essential tool due to its customizability and security. It’s become a key aspect in a cybersecurity professional’s duties, which include:
- Risk assessment and management
- Information systems and authentication
- Penetration testing
- Cloud security and digital forensics
- Plus more!
And it’s the building of new expertise that really stood out to Amber. For example, in her final project, she was able to learn how to program a command to check a system for known malware without antivirus software — something that, had she not had the drive to take a leap, build further onto her education, and pursue a whole new career, she may never have gotten the chance to do.
But it’s not only technical abilities that play a part. What other skills might you need to learn? We spoke to ZenGRC, according to them, it’s also important to have, among others:
- Teamwork and management skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Communication skills
By having a combination of the right technical and soft skills, you’ll be better positioned to, like Amber, make a transition into cybersecurity!
So after completing her program, what was the job search like? As with many technical roles, a position in cybersecurity typically requires more than one round of interviews (including maybe even some skill tests). And during the application process, Amber utilized Indeed the most — ultimately landing her first cybersecurity job after only a couple months.
These days, Amber now works as a service desk analyst, “providing front line tech support.” How does it compare to her work at the debt collection firm? As she told us, “it’s much better … I can do the work I enjoy, and the paychecks are a lot better.” It may come as no surprise, then, that if she could go back in time and give herself any advice before applying, she would say: “Don’t hesitate!”
Amber is a client of Climb’s. However, she was not paid or otherwise compensated for this testimonial. This testimonial reflects the real-life experiences and opinions of Amber; however, it should not be assumed that all users will have the same experiences. Individual results may vary.
The quoted statements appear verbatim as given by the user, except for the correction of grammar and typing errors. Some testimonials may have been shortened or rearranged for the sake of clarity.
Schools do not endorse loans originated by Climb Investco, LLC, and Climb Investco, LLC is not affiliated with any school. Climb Investco, LLC is the loan distributor, not any school.
Climb encourages students to do thorough research in selecting a training program that meets their unique needs. Details provided by Climb are for information purposes only and are not meant to qualify an institution or be relied upon in determining which institution is right for you.