Whether you're just finishing up high school and trying to decide what to do with your life or you're in the middle of a career crisis, looking to make a big change, if you have any inclination towards computer science, the future looks bright. Especially in the area of cyber security, you have endless options and opportunities if this particular field is right for you. Here's how to know:

1. The Educational Requirements Don't Intimidate You

Many people interested in computers and programming don't actually have a formal education, and while it may have worked for Bill Gates, it may not work for you. Most cyber security experts have achieved a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or Engineering. If you want to work for any major company, you'll be expected to arrive with diploma in hand; however, if you were interested in launching your own startup and believe you have the ability without the education, it could work. You'd have to be super talented, intuitive with computer security, and able to market yourself well in a highly competitive field.

2. An Ongoing Education Is Appealing To You

Information technology changes on a nearly daily basis, and especially where cyber security is concerned, the need to keep learning is constant. You might be attending many workshops and training seminars, or the company you work for might want you to continue your formal education at night and other off-times. Either way, you should be prepared to stay on top of your industry through continuing education.

3. You're Willing To Go Where The Jobs Are

Unlike the healthcare industry, where there's almost always some type of job opportunity no matter where you are, cyber security tends to gravitate toward high-tech areas. With the occasional exception of satellite offices or a major company locating in a rural area, most of the jobs you'll likely be interested in will be in and around information hubs and major technology towns, like Houston, Boston, and, of course, Silicon Valley and Seattle.

4. Your Body Can Handle Being A Chair-Jockey

As mentally challenging as an information security career is, it also means spending lots of time seated, which can actually be harder on you physically than a job that keeps you moving. If you have any back, neck, shoulder, or wrist issues, tell your physician about your career plans so you can be prepared with special equipment and the knowledge you need about stretching and exercising regularly.

5. You're A Cranial Problem-Solver

Cyber security careers involve a lot of thinking, whether you're on a team or not. You're going to be constantly challenged with problems you'll need to solve—most likely, in a big hurry.

6. Thinking Like A Criminal Suits You

Especially when a system you're in charge of has been compromised, you should be capable of thinking like a criminal in order to determine how your company or client was breached. Additionally, if you're in charge of building and developing secure infrastructures, you will need to anticipate how they could be hacked and thus how you can prevent such an attack.

7. You Don't Need To Be A James Bond

As cutting-edge as this field is, don't expect to be impersonating James Bond every other Monday. In fact, if all goes well, your job might actually be a little monotonous.

8. Job Security Makes You Happy

The anticipated growth for the cyber security industry is magnificent and if you're willing to keep learning and are dedicated to your career, it should be a long and illustrious one. On your own, too, as a security consultant, you could work the hours you choose, charging considerably for your services, so consider how this industry could serve you in the long-term, too, as you approach retirement or want to do more leisurely things in life, such as traveling. Because your skills will always be in demand, as they become truly refined, you should be able to write your own ticket.

9. You Have A Solid Grasp Of Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning

AI and machine learning are beginning to permeate every aspect of technology, and this field is no exception. As you continue your education or set particular goals, be sure to include these important aspects of cyber security in your plans.

10. You Enjoy The Company Of Robots

Although information security doesn't have to include any type of robotics, in the future, it very likely will. The robot revolution is well underway, and despite the fact that the world's leading robotics expert predicts full-fledged automation won't happen for a few years, you'll probably encounter some form of robot in this field. If you're in it for the long haul, you might even have a few robotic subordinates or even a robotic supervisor, so get used to the idea of gear-head coworkers.

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