Why CAPSLOCK’s cyber security programme was the right choice for Uchenna

We had the chance to speak to Uchenna just after his CAPSLOCK graduation. He shares a great perspective on what it means to succeed on the course and why he wants to start a career in cyber security.

What's the biggest thing you've learned from this course?

For me, it’s really about how important security actually is, and how often it’s overlooked. The more I dive into the field, the more I realise that even something as simple as not changing the default Wi-Fi password—which I still need to do—can have serious consequences if left unchecked. Other things, if not properly managed, handled, or configured, can also cause major problems.

If I were to share a lesson beyond cyber security, it’s to really put yourself out there [on the course].

You never know what opportunities might come from taking a chance. If you don’t, you’ll never know whether it was the right move for you.

How has this course changed how you think or do things?

I think, mainly by being around different kinds of people and seeing how they think and approach problems. For example, I have a teammate whose experience really drives them to take leadership and guide the team, which I really admire. Then there are cohort members who aren’t afraid to speak up or make mistakes, and I’ve realised that what might seem foolish at first really isn’t.

The advisors and tutors, also share a huge amount of wisdom, knowledge, and encouragement, which has been really helpful. You often find yourself doubting whether you can do it or just going along without really knowing, but that’s okay, it doesn’t mean you haven’t learned anything. It’s a gradual change that takes time to show itself, and sometimes it just needs a little push for it to fully manifest.

What part of the course did you enjoy the most?

Honestly, for me, everything. It’s been such an incredible journey, and I know I’m going to miss it. There’s something special about getting up each day, preparing yourself, and feeling like you have a purpose. Finishing the course will feel a bit strange because that routine and sense of purpose will be gone, but it also marks the start of something new.

I won’t miss the tests, they were tough, but it’s comforting to know the skills and knowledge are still there. Beyond the course content, I’ve met so many great people, including some really knowledgeable people who are generous enough to share what they know.

My advice? Take full advantage of that wisdom. Tutors and advisors aren’t just there to teach; they can become friends and mentors too.

Remember, you’re not just here to learn cyber security, you’re here to build connections, develop yourself, and create bonds that could last a lifetime.

Was there anything you found challenging and how did you get through it?

For me, it was that feeling of knowing nothing at all. But having the right person say the right thing at the right time can make a huge difference.

I also realised that everyone faces challenges on the course in their own way, and it’s reassuring to know we can support each other along the journey.

I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask for help and to look to others when you need guidance. Life isn’t always easy, but we don’t have to make it harder for one another. You’d be surprised how willing people are to help.

How do you feel about your progress from day one to now?

I’d say my progress has changed a lot, even if at times it doesn’t feel like it.

My approach to problems and the way I view things has expanded in ways I never expected.

Engaging with security auditing within a business has really helped me understand how policies and protocols make a difference and keep a business running smoothly. I’ve also learned how frameworks and standards shape a business’s security posture, which has shifted how I think businesses should operate.

I’ve come to appreciate the importance of business resilience, how companies plan, prepare, detect issues, respond, contain, recover, and learn from incidents. It’s a cycle that never stops, and it’s always a matter of when, not if.

What kind of roles are you aiming for in cyber security now?

My main goal is to become a SOC analyst. I enjoy the technical side of things, working with the command line, studying malware, and thinking like an attacker to understand how systems can be breached. I’m also really interested in auditing and business resilience. Learning how organisations prepare for, respond to, and recover from attacks has been fascinating.

What was your career before this course, and why did you want to move into cyber security?

I graduated from university almost three years ago, and my only job so far has been working as a crew member at a fast food restaurant. I wanted to find better opportunities for myself, and when my uncle recommended this course, I thought, why not? Technology is the future, and it seemed like an exciting path to explore.

I wanted to take the opportunity while I could and it’s been an amazing experience. I don’t regret it at all; it’s been a really positive step for me.

Is there anything you’d like to add about your experience?

For anyone just starting out, my advice is simple: have fun and enjoy your time. You only get to be new to something once, so really make the most of it. That’s all I’ve got to say!

Ready to start your cyber security career?

✅ Apply today and join the next cohort of cyber security professionals.