From classrooms to cyber frontlines

In today’s hyper-connected digital world, cyber threats are evolving at an unprecedented speed. From ransomware and phishing attacks to sophisticated breaches driven by automation and artificial intelligence, the cybersecurity landscape is in constant flux. For students aspiring to build a career in cybersecurity, staying updated is not merely an advantage—it is a necessity. Alongside awareness, cultivating the right learning habits plays a critical role in long-term success in this field.

One of the most effective ways to stay informed is by regularly engaging with credible cybersecurity news and threat intelligence platforms. Reading advisories, breach reports, and expert analyses helps students understand emerging vulnerabilities and attack trends. Gautam Mathur, an alumnus of Apeejay Stya University (ASU), Gurugram, and a cybersecurity professional with over 1.5 years of experience across SOC, GRC, and VAPT, emphasizes the importance of diverse information sources. He shares, “Cybersecurity changes fast, so I stay updated through a mix of threat intel feeds, security communities, and hands-on practice. I regularly follow platforms like HackerOne disclosures, ThreatPost, BleepingComputer, and various SOC/GRC/DFIR blogs.” Such consistent exposure helps students remain aligned with real-world developments.

However, staying updated goes beyond reading. Hands-on learning is indispensable in cybersecurity. Practical exposure through labs, simulations, capture-the-flag (CTF) challenges, and open-source tools allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in controlled environments. Mathur reinforces this approach, noting that he actively tests concepts through labs and tools because “practical exposure sticks better than just reading.” This habit helps learners build confidence, problem-solving skills, and technical depth.

Equally important is community engagement. Participating in cybersecurity forums, online communities, and student clubs enables learners to exchange ideas, ask questions, and learn from experienced professionals. These interactions often provide insights into real-world challenges that textbooks cannot fully capture. Conferences, webinars, and workshops further broaden exposure to evolving tools, techniques, and career pathways.

For students entering cybersecurity, developing disciplined learning habits is crucial. Rather than sporadic learning, consistency makes a lasting difference. Mathur advises students to “build consistent habits rather than random bursts of learning.” Starting with strong fundamentals in networking, operating systems, and security principles creates a solid base for advanced learning. Curiosity, experimentation, and documentation—such as maintaining notes or blogs—help reinforce understanding and showcase growth.

Ultimately, cybersecurity rewards those who remain adaptable, ethical, and persistent. By combining regular updates from trusted sources, hands-on practice, active community involvement, and disciplined learning habits, students can prepare themselves for a dynamic and impactful career. In a field defined by constant change, the willingness to learn continuously becomes the strongest defense of all.