Mahendra’s Journey: From Email Support to SOC Analyst

Mahendra’s journey into cyber security is a true reflection of persistence, focused learning, and the right mentorship. Starting with a background in Bachelor of Computer Applications, he first explored the field through a foundation course in Mysore before deciding to pursue advanced cyber security training with SKILLOGIC. His commitment to practicing daily, working on real-time projects, and preparing through mock interviews helped him build strong confidence and technical expertise.

With continuous guidance from trainers and placement support, Mahendra successfully transitioned from an email support background to securing his first role as a SOC Analyst at V Secure Networks in Chennai. In this article, he shares his learning journey, internship experience, interview preparation, and key advice for aspirants who want to build a career in cyber security.

From BCA Graduate to SOC Analyst: Mahendra’s Cyber Security Journey

In this section, Mahendra shares his education, training, internship experience, placement journey, and advice for beginners. His story reflects how determination and the right guidance can shape a successful career in cyber security.

Q1: Can you introduce yourself and share your background before cyber security?

My name is Mahendra, and I completed my Bachelor of Computer Applications from the University of Mysore in 2024. During my BCA, I developed an interest in cyber security after being introduced to it as a subject in my fifth semester. My professor explained the concepts very clearly, and that inspired me to pursue this field further. After completing my graduation, I joined a cyber security foundation course in Mysore. To continue my learning in a more structured and advanced way, I chose SKILLOGIC for specialized cyber security training. Alongside my training, I also completed CEH certification and internship projects, which gave me the hands-on exposure I needed to start my career.

Q2: What motivated you to choose cyber security as a career?

While studying BCA, I realized that cyber security was more than just a subject; it was a rapidly growing domain with endless opportunities. The subject fascinated me because it combined technology, problem-solving, and real-world applications. I felt it was a field where I could continuously learn and grow while also contributing to protecting organizations from cyber threats. That interest became stronger after my foundation course, and I decided to make cyber security my long-term career path.

Q3: Why did you choose SKILLOGIC, and how was your training experience?

I discovered SKILLOGIC through YouTube and later checked its reviews on Google Maps, which were very positive. That motivated me to visit the institute and inquire further. I was guided by my Relationship Manager, Akshata, who helped me with the enrollment process. My experience with SKILLOGIC was excellent. The classes were well-structured with two hours of theory and hands-on practice every day. Apart from class hours, I used to dedicate three to four additional hours for practice. Trainers like Akbar sir and Fatima madam were always approachable. Even if I had doubts late at night, I could message Akbar sir, and he would respond immediately. This continuous support made my learning journey smooth and effective.

Q4: What projects did you do in your internship, and how did they help?

During my internship, I worked on three major projects: Wi-Fi hacking, phishing simulation for employee training, and website vulnerability scanning. These projects gave me real-world exposure and helped me apply the concepts I learned in class to practical scenarios. Initially, I wasn’t sure how to choose the right projects, but with guidance from my trainers and additional suggestions from GPT, I selected projects that matched industry requirements. Working on these projects improved my technical confidence and prepared me well for interviews.

Q5: Did mock interviews help you prepare for the real interview?

Mock interviews played a big role in my success. My first mock interview didn’t go as planned; I scored 5.8 out of 10 and struggled with some foundation concepts and tools. However, the feedback I received helped me improve, and in the second mock interview, I performed much better with a score of 6.2. These sessions prepared me for real interview situations, boosted my confidence, and helped me answer both technical and scenario-based questions effectively.

Q6: Can you share your placement journey and how you secured your first job?

This was my very first cyber security interview, and I was selected for the role of SOC Analyst at V Secure Networks in Chennai. The interview process had two rounds: a technical round and an HR round. The technical round included intermediate and advanced-level questions such as the meaning of an exploit, the use of SIEM tools for monitoring alerts, and tools for ticket raising and issue tracking. Thanks to my training, internship, and mock interview practice, I was able to answer confidently.

The placement opportunity itself came directly from SKILLOGIC’s placement team. While I had also applied for jobs through LinkedIn, I did not receive responses from those applications. It was the SKILLOGIC placement team that shared this opening and supported me throughout the process.

Q7: How did you prepare your resume, and do you have any tips for freshers?

My resume was built as an ATS-based resume, meaning it was optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems used by companies to filter applications. The SKILLOGIC placement team helped me by sharing resume templates, and I customized mine by including relevant keywords, technologies, and project details. My tip for freshers is to always align your resume with the job description and highlight projects that reflect current industry demands. This increases the chances of getting shortlisted by companies.

Q8: What advice do you have for beginners in cyber security?

My advice to aspirants is to first build genuine interest in the subject because without interest, it is hard to sustain in this field. Start by learning the basics and then focus on practical skills. Be patient, because sometimes it takes time to land your first opportunity. Stay consistent, practice daily, and never hesitate to ask for help from mentors or trainers. With dedication and the right guidance, anyone can succeed in cyber security.

Refer these articles:

• Best Cyber Security Techniques for Modern Threats
• Cyber Risk Quantification in Cyber Security Explained
• What Is MFA in Cyber Security and Why It Matters

Key Takeaways from Mahendra’s Cyber Security Journey

Mahendra’s path from a BCA graduate to a SOC Analyst at V Secure Networks reflects the value of structured training, hands-on projects, and placement support in building a cyber security career. Here are the key insights from his experience with SKILLOGIC:

• Strong Academic Foundation: Mahendra’s interest in cyber security began during his BCA, where an inspiring professor introduced him to the subject.
• Choosing the Right Training: After a foundation course in Mysore, he selected SKILLOGIC for advanced cyber security training, guided by positive reviews and proper mentorship.
• Balanced Learning Approach: His training combined daily theory and hands-on practice, supported by approachable trainers who clarified doubts instantly, even outside class hours.
• Internship with Real-World Projects: Mahendra gained valuable exposure through projects like Wi-Fi hacking, phishing simulations, and website vulnerability scanning, aligned with industry needs.
• Mock Interviews as Confidence Builders: Despite initial struggles, feedback from mock sessions helped him improve, boosting his performance in real interviews.
• Successful Placement Journey: With guidance from SKILLOGIC’s placement team, Mahendra cleared his very first cyber security interview and secured a SOC Analyst role in Chennai.
• Resume Optimization: By creating an ATS-friendly resume and aligning it with job descriptions, he maximized his chances of being shortlisted.
• Advice for Beginners: Mahendra emphasizes building genuine interest, mastering the basics, focusing on practical skills, and staying consistent and patient until the right opportunity arrives.

In short, Mahendra’s journey from a BCA graduate to a SOC Analyst at V Secure Networks shows that with the right combination of passion, structured training, and consistent practice, even freshers can successfully break into the cyber security industry. His experience at SKILLOGIC, from hands-on learning to internship projects and placement support, highlights the importance of mentorship and practical exposure. 

Refer these articles:

• How to Become a Cyber Security Expert in Bangalore
• How to Choose the Best Institute for Cyber Security in Bangalore
• How to Become a Cyber Security Expert in Chennai
• Tips for Selecting the Top Cyber Security Institute in Chennai

For anyone aspiring to start a career in cyber security, Mahendra’s story is proof that determination and the right guidance can turn ambition into reality. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global cyber security market is projected to reach USD 562.77 billion by 2032, creating immense opportunities for freshers and professionals alike. Enrolling in a cyber security institute is the first step to building the skills and industry exposure required to thrive in this booming field.

For those aiming to build a rewarding cyber security career, Bangalore is one of the best destinations to start. Known as India’s Silicon Valley, the city is home to IT giants, global tech firms, startups, and research hubs that continuously demand skilled cyber security experts. By enrolling in a cyber security course in Bangalore, learners gain access to expert-led classes, lab-based training, and real-world projects that prepare them for in-demand roles such as SOC Analyst, Ethical Hacker, and Cyber Security Consultant. The thriving ecosystem makes Bangalore an ideal place to fast-track your career in this domain.

SKILLOGIC is among the top institutes in India offering industry-aligned cyber security training. The cyber security courses are designed to provide practical exposure through labs, simulations, and project-based learning, ensuring students gain the hands-on skills needed to become job-ready. In addition to Bangalore, SKILLOGIC also offers cyber security courses in Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, Coimbatore, and other major cities, providing consistent learning opportunities nationwide.

The cyber security professional plus program by SKILLOGIC, accredited by NASSCOM FutureSkills and IIFIS, is delivered by seasoned trainers with deep expertise in the field. Covering domains such as ethical hacking, penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and network defense, the program ensures learners gain both technical depth and industry recognition. Added benefits include 24/7 cloud lab access, globally recognized certifications, internship opportunities, and dedicated placement assistance. In addition to these areas, SKILLOGIC also offers specialized SOC Analyst courses designed to equip learners with the skills required for Security Operations Centers, focusing on real-time threat monitoring, incident response, and advanced security management.

With more than 1,00,000 professionals trained worldwide, SKILLOGIC has established itself as a trusted destination for cyber security education. For aspiring professionals in Bangalore, the institute offers the perfect platform to build future-ready skills and secure rewarding roles in one of the fastest-growing fields of the digital era.