Gaylynn was the first person to reach out to me on the first day I announced my venture and website, The Triangle Net. She simply asked how she could help. What I learned from this initiative is that everyone has this amazing power to make a difference in the life of another person. It is as simple as asking: “How can I help you?”
Gaylynn’s story is yet another testimony of how the investment in community can generate a much greater return than you could ever expect. There is a circular movement in how a giving person feels a sense of obligation to pay it forward when given a chance, an opportunity that helps them grow and move forward.
I absolutely love Gaylynn’s commitment to helping others find their path into cybersecurity, and to supporting more women overcome obstacles along their way. It is always a rewarding experience meeting someone who understands their purpose. Gaylynn has that vision and perspective like an old soul. How grateful I am she reached out to me!
I hope you will find my chat with Gaylynn inspiring and riveting. I encourage you to wonder how you can help someone along their journey. You would be amazed of the endless ways you too can make a positive impact. Try it. What do you have to lose?
Gaylynn’s Recommendations
- You can learn anything you set your mind to.
- Don’t underestimate yourself.
- Trust yourself.
- Never quit on your pursuit of a career in cybersecurity.
- Be active and involved on LinkedIn.
- Expect change. Embrace change. Change is good!
- Expect adversity. Prepare early for it.
- Three basic security best practices to start using now (like right now):
- Use a password manager (e.g. LastPass) and don’t reuse passwords
- Use 2-factor authentication (e.g. Google authenticator app in any app store)
- Think (and hover over the link) before you click. Be suspicious of unexpected email. Slow down.
- There are real-world consequences to your actions. You play a part in keeping organizations you belong to secure.
- Cybersecurity is a lifestyle.
- Consider attending capture the flag competitions to gain hands-on experience in cybersecurity. There are fun ways to learn cybersecurity.
- Find your people. Surround yourself with the people who believe in you and support you.
- Be a leader. You too can be a role model and a mentor. Lead by example.
- Invest in your community.
- Pay it forward. Ask someone how you can help them.
- Live your purpose.
- Break down doors. Break glass. You got this!
Resources & References
- Personal LinkedIn
- Studied:
- Volunteers for Information Systems Security Association of Raleigh
- Volunteers for Women in Cybersecurity (WiCys) Raleigh chapter
- Podcast hosted by Renee Small – Breaking into Cybersecurity
- Podcast hosted by Karen Worstell – MOJO Maker
- Defcon919
- Capture The Flag ( CTF) competitions
Biography
I am an information security professional based in Raleigh, NC. I have experience optimizing processes and services, and have served in roles in various security programs, including identity and access management, threat and vulnerability management, security awareness & training and data loss prevention. I am a proud member of the InfoSec community, and participate in multiple networking groups around the Research Triangle, including Infragard, Raleigh ISSA, and (ISC)2. I serve as a volunteer board member for Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) NC Affiliate.
Credits
Created with the support of T&T Creative Group.
Music by Wolves: “Life Stories”, “Kenya”, “We Make It”
