Professional advice needed!!
Hey everyone,
I’m currently in college and I have around a 2-month summer break coming up, so I was thinking of going all in on cybersecurity during this time.
Right now, I’d say I’m slightly above beginner level. I understand networking, basic security concepts, Linux, common tools, and I’ve done some hands-on stuff already, but I definitely wouldn’t call myself job-ready or an expert yet.
So far I’ve completed:
- Google Cybersecurity Certificate
- Cisco Certified Support Technician Cybersecurity
- EC-Council EHE certificate
I was thinking of buying the annual TryHackMe subscription and grinding labs, CTFs, learning paths, SOC analyst paths, etc. I’m also considering taking one of their exams/certifications afterward.
My questions are:
- Is TryHackMe actually worth it in 2026 for someone trying to break into cybersecurity?
- How recognized are TryHackMe certificates/exams by employers?
- Would it be smarter to focus on other certs first that are more recognized or cheaper?
- For someone at my level, what would be the best roadmap from here?
- If my goal is eventually becoming a Penetration Tester/Ethical Hacker:, what skills should I prioritize most?
- Should I focus more on certifications, hands-on labs, home labs/projects, or platforms like THM/HTB?
- Would recruiters care more about practical skills + projects than platform certificates?
I genuinely want to use these 2 months properly and improve as much as possible instead of just collecting random certificates.
Would appreciate honest advice from people already working in the field. Thanks!