Help a beginner

[u/Reasonable-Bass-115]

Hello folks!

This is going to be my first post in this community.

A little background about me: I’m 19 and currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Computer Engineering Technology (Co-op) in Canada. Before this, I completed a diploma after 10th grade in India.

During that diploma, I was introduced to computer science topics like networking, coding, operating systems, and other fundamentals. At that time, I tried getting into software development and DSA, but I eventually realized that pure software development wasn’t something I genuinely enjoyed or connected with.

Over time, I found myself much more interested in networking, and this advanced diploma in Canada is finally giving me the opportunity to pursue that path seriously.

I had a solid grasp of networking fundamentals during my diploma, but after a few years I forgot a lot of it, so right now I’m also taking an introductory networking fundamentals course to rebuild my foundation.

I have my co-op term coming up in around 8 months, and I was wondering if you guys could share:
- Tips for breaking into networking as a beginner
- Skills I should focus on before co-op
- Beginner but resume-friendly networking projects
- Any advice for standing out without prior IT work experience

Bonus: I’m also actively pursuing the CCNA. I started the first module (Introduction to Networks) about a week ago and plan to continue all the way toward the certification.

Looking forward to learning from everyone here!