Episode 43
Rana Khalil - From Cryptography to Pentester!
Journey into Cybersecurity and OSCP Certification with Rana Khalil
This episode features Rana Khalil, a Senior Cybersecurity Assessment Analyst with a rich background in pen-testing, especially in the financial sector. Rana shares her non-traditional entry into technology, starting with a dislike for her first laptop and phone, transitioning from biochemistry to a math degree, and eventually finding a passion in computer science, leading her to cryptography and cybersecurity. Her academic journey includes significant work in cryptography, under the tutelage of Carlisle Adams, and a master’s project on web application vulnerability scanners. Rana discusses her motivation and relentless pursuit of the OSCP certification, highlighting the importance of hands-on experience, teaching, and documenting the learning process through write-ups. She also conveys the value of previous experience in related fields, the significance of specializing and pacing in learning, and shares insights into her career progression, including valuable advice for people aspiring to enter the cybersecurity field.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:47 Rana's Journey into Cybersecurity
02:45 Rana's Early Interest in Mathematics and Cryptography
05:47 Transition into Computer Science and Web Security
10:52 Master's Research on Web Application Vulnerability Scanners
13:02 First Security Job and the Impact of Public Speaking
15:11 Journey to the OSCP Certification
17:36 The Value of Self-Study and Accountability
18:53 Reflections on the OSCP Experience
20:59 Understanding the OCP Exam
21:13 The Importance of Lab Time
22:18 The Value of Documenting Your Journey
22:49 Introduction to the OSWE Certification
25:07 The Role of Experience in Security
25:16 The Life of a Security Professional
25:25 The Importance of Specialization in Security
26:24 The Value of Previous Experience in Security
29:55 The Challenges and Rewards of Pen Testing
30:43 The Balance of Work and Personal Time in Security
34:58 The Importance of Focusing on One Area in Security
37:07 The Importance of Understanding Source Code
38:11 Final Thoughts and Advice
Thank you for listening!
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