From IT Admin to Cybersecurity Lead: My CISSP Certification Journey
Let me take you back to a moment I still remember clearly—me, sitting at my desk at 10:45 PM, troubleshooting a printer issue for the third time that day. Don’t get me wrong—being an IT Admin taught me a lot. But deep down, I knew I wanted more. I wanted to be part of the bigger picture—protecting networks, analyzing threats, and making real security decisions. That’s when I stumbled upon the CISSP Certification—and everything changed.
This is my story of how CISSP training took me from cable management and patching updates to leading a cybersecurity team and owning my role as a decision-maker in IT security. If you’re considering a similar path, I hope this gives you clarity—and a little inspiration.
Why I Chose CISSP
I had looked into a bunch of certifications—CEH, Security+, even some vendor-specific ones. But the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) stood out. It wasn’t just another piece of paper; it was the industry-recognized credential for cybersecurity leaders.
What drew me in?
- It validated both technical knowledge and managerial experience.
- It had global recognition (hello, international opportunities!).
- It wasn’t easy—and I wanted the challenge.
Plus, I found a trusted CISSP Training Course through Sprintzeal, which made the process way less overwhelming.
The Turning Point: My CISSP Training Journey
Once I enrolled in Sprintzeal’s CISSP certification training, the gears really started to turn. The CISSP classes were structured, but flexible enough for someone like me with a full-time job. The instructors weren’t just reading slides—they had real-world experience and shared stories that made the concepts click.
Key areas we covered included:
- Security and risk management
- Identity and access control
- Security operations
- Software development security
Each domain felt like leveling up. I wasn’t just learning—I was transforming my mindset. The CISSP course challenged me to think like a strategist, not just a technician.
From Self-Doubt to Confidence
I’ll be honest—there were days I felt completely out of my depth. The official title, Certified Information Systems Security Professional, sounded intimidating. I questioned if I was cut out for it. But I kept at it.
I created flashcards, joined a Reddit study group, and even explained topics to my cat (who was mildly impressed). Over time, I saw a shift—not just in what I knew, but how I thought. I started approaching problems with a security-first mindset.
The CISSP training not only sharpened my skills but reshaped how I approached my job. And when I finally passed the exam (yes, on the first try!), it felt like more than just a win—it was a doorway opening.
Landing My Role as Cybersecurity Lead
Within six months of getting CISSP certified, I applied for a Cybersecurity Lead position in my organization. Normally, I’d talk myself out of it. But now, armed with Certified Information Security Systems Professional CISSP credentials, I had the confidence—and the backing—to go for it.
The interview was intense, but I could speak the language. I understood frameworks, policies, and how to align IT security with business goals. They saw that. And I got the job.
Now I lead a team of five, drive security initiatives, and contribute to shaping our organization’s security roadmap.
Final Thoughts: Is CISSP Worth It?
If you’re sitting in a role that feels limiting… if you’re craving more impact, more growth, and more recognition—CISSP Certification can open that door.
The path isn’t easy. But with the right CISSP classes, commitment, and a clear goal, it’s absolutely worth it. Don’t wait for the “perfect time”—just start. Trust me, your future self will thank you.
Next Steps
Ready to level up?
Check out the CISSP Certification Training by Sprintzeal. Their expert-led certified information systems security professional training made all the difference in my journey—and it could in yours too.
