cross-posted from: https://lemmy.blahaj.zone/post/33597700

I know that I want to major in Cybersecurity, as it’s been a passion of mine since middle school, and I really like my classes so far (Sophomore). But I’m starting to think about what to minor in because my degree leaves a lot of credits open for electives or other classes. My mom has stressed to me the importance of backup plans in case the cyber field crashes for some reason, and I understand, but it’s stressing me a bit.

I’m trying to think about both my strengths, likes, what is relatively AI resistant, and is projected to have decent growth according to the US BLS. I’ve considered data science or a similar field, but I don’t think I’m a huge business person.

What I’m good at:

• Sciences, specifically bio, chem, marine, and earth. I never did physics nor want to (it sounds boring…)
• Math, although my degree only required pre-calc at max. But it’s always clicked for me as long as I do some short practice
• Writing, even if I hate it sometimes
• Tutoring/teaching others
• Being detail oriented (read: perfectionist)
• Leading a project (if no one else wants to)
• Public speaking

What I like:

• Biology is the best, I love learning about DNA/genetics, cells, viruses, animals
• Learning Japanese is a fun hobby, but I try to take it seriously too (with what extra time I have)
• Writing when I get to pick a topic I want to research
• Music and art. I did Orchestra (viola) most of my academic career, and I can’t draw but I’d like to learn. I do like making infographics and presentations. I do like a little photography, but I don’t have fancy equipment or know special techniques
• Tech, duh. I got very into computer networking, and I like learning about privacy and self-hosting.
• Helping people, although I’m not sure if I’d be good at being a counselor or community worker

What I hate:

• English. Specifically writing about shit I didn’t pick (book reports, forced topic paper). Also how open-ended it can be (“Oh, A isn’t wrong per se, but B is the best answer”)
• Not a huge hands-on person, outside of exercising and gardening. I don’t build stuff or want to be an engineer.
• Not a social butterfly, so hospitality wouldn’t work. Despite being introverted, I also don’t like talking to people via text, social media, and phone. I like being in person with people if I have to talk to them.

Need more practice/time:

• Coding. I really want to make wonderful software to help others, but I’m still a noob. I need to practice more to at least get comfy with Python…
• Apparently I was one of the few weirdos to like the trial week of learning SQL in high school, but I’m not sure if it’s something I’d do for life or am good at

Any Cyber professionals think I should just go all in and minor in IT or CS? Or does spreading out a bit more sound good? I feel I could learn the additional useful skills (programming) in my own time rather than majoring in CS.