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