Go Make A Friend

I am often asked about how to get into Cybersecurity. My simplest, most impactful answer? Go make a friend. Why? Because in this field, friendships are everything.

Cybersecurity can be challenging and sometimes isolating, but with the right people by your side, the journey becomes not only manageable but deeply rewarding. Friends in the industry provide insights, motivation, and often opportunities you wouldn’t find alone. From learning together to supporting each other’s growth, having a strong "framily" can make the difference between just getting by and truly thriving.

Of course, there’s more to it, but here’s the thing: you don’t have to do this alone. The cybersecurity community is full of people willing to help you out and share knowledge. You only need to step out of your comfort zone and dive in!

So, where can you find your people?

Discord

What’s Discord? If you’re asking, you're missing out on a world beyond LinkedIn. Seriously, go sign up! There are countless Discord communities out there, and while too many might get overwhelming, here are a few to kickstart your journey:

1. Simply Cyber
   Simply Cyber Discord link
   This inclusive community, led by Dr. Gerald Auger, offers a little something for everyone. Tune in for the Daily Cyber Threat Brief every weekday at 8 am ET to get the latest cyber updates. Channels here cover everything from news and career advice to GRC, red team, blue team, and even CTFs!
2. Hack Smarter
   Hack Smarter Discord link
   Created by Tyler Ramsbey, this community supports weekly goal-setting meetings, offers “donate-what-you-can” career coaching, and runs beginner-friendly CTF teams.
3. StudyGRC
   StudyGRC Discord link
   Led by Chris Whitlock, Study GRC is a nonprofit that’s all about fostering community, providing assistance, and resources in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC). Join the weekly Thursday meetings at 7 pm ET to dive into conversations with fellow GRC enthusiasts.

Whether it’s your first day or thousandth day in cybersecurity, you’re welcome here. The communities are open to all, so don’t let imposter syndrome hold you back!

Local Meetups

We all need face-to-face connections. Can’t travel far yet? No problem! There’s plenty happening locally:

1. BSides Conferences
   Just Google [nearest large town/city] BSides and you'll likely find your local event. These conferences are typically free, and they’re a perfect entry point for volunteering or even speaking for the first time.
2. Monthly Meetups
   Local groups like DEF CON, OWASP, ISSA, ISACA, ISC2, etc. have regular meetups that you can find on Meetup. Whether or not they’re free varies, but they’re generally affordable. Pro tip: my local hacker association (free) has been a goldmine of knowledge!

These meetups are often laid-back and welcoming to beginners. Take a chance, show up, and you’ll be surprised at how inclusive the community can be.

Conferences

If you have the means to attend larger conferences or live close to one, don’t sleep on these:

1. Wild West Hackin' Fest (Deadwood, SD in October | Mile High - Colorado in February)
   Run by Black Hills Information Security, this conference is like family. If I could only attend one conference a year, it would be WWHF in Deadwood, SD. Oh, and eating steak with John Strand? Worth every minute.
2. HackSpaceCon (Florida in April)
   At the Kennedy Space Center, this conference shines a light on cybersecurity in space systems and technology. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a rocket launch!
3. Kernelcon (Nebraska in April)
   This Omaha-based conference has everything for computer security enthusiasts, from malware research to electronics. I haven’t made it there yet, but it’s high on my list!

Takeaways

However you do it – just Go Make A Friend! Find your tribe, stay active, give back, and watch the connections flourish. Remember, we’re all stronger together. It’s easy to feel isolated in this field, but you don’t have to do it alone. Just step out, and you’ll find people ready to support and cheer you on.