Session Logs - Nile S.

(Verification of my tutoring work is available for professional reference upon request.)

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Early March 2023

Topic Mentorship to create a cyber security resume for an entry level position.
Goals
  • Get to know the student and understand their resume-building challenges to craft a competitive resume.
  • Guide the student on structuring their resume, highlighting bootcamp coursework, certifications, technologies, core competencies, and transferable soft skills from their performing arts background.
  • Encourage the student to think from the perspective of job recruiters, hiring managers, or tech leads when constructing the resume for an entry-level cybersecurity analyst role.
Outcomes
  • The student initially struggled with formal writing due to their performing arts background, but was encouraged to continue, finding parallels in describing competencies across both fields.
  • The student was enthusiastic about the process, finding it enjoyable to be specific, especially with power verbs and spelling out the technologies learned in boot camp as this was a major motivator.
  • We discussed which skills to prioritize, balancing technical and soft skills gained from the performing arts. I reassured the student that their unique background could be an advantage.
  • We reviewed the resume from a recruiter/hiring manager's perspective. The student was tasked with independently making adjustments based on this feedback.

Mid March 2023

Topic Mock cybersecurity interview and coaching for an entry-level position.
Goals
  • Present student with a detailed fictitious company background and job ad to prepare key topics, including threat detection and response, network security, penetration testing, Kali Linux tools, and encryption.
  • Provide guidance on interview expectations, preparation, pacing, and navigating the interview process.
  • Coach the student on areas for improvement after the mock interview.
  • Offer "real world" information and select web resources to refer to for further interview tips.
Outcomes
  • Evaluated the student's overall performance. They did well in staying on topic, maintaining confidence and a pleasant demeanor, and answering questions to the best of their ability.
  • The student felt a strong urge to answer every question, even those outside their knowledge. Coached the student on handling unfamiliar questions by politely asking to move on. Advised them to be mindful of pacing.
  • The student performed well overall and would be recommended to continue through the interview process in a real-world setting.