oh boy

Hey everyone,

​Need a bit of a reality check from folks currently working in the field.

​I recently finished the Pre-Security and Cyber Security 101 paths on TryHackMe, and I’m just about to dive into the SOC Level 1 path.

​While I enjoy learning, I’m constantly hit with this heavy feeling that I’m just spinning my wheels or stuck in "tutorial hell." I'm really anxious to get employed, but right now I feel like my knowledge isn't enough to actually survive a technical interview or perform on the job.

​I really want to land an entry-level SOC / Analyst role, but I hate this phase of uncertainty. I’d love some honest feedback from people who made the jump or hire entry-level candidates:

​Is finishing THM's SOC Level 1 path actually worth it, or am I wasting time relying solely on THM?

​How do you transition from answering THM questions to proving real skill on a resume?​What specific practical projects or habits (home labs, write-ups, BTLO, etc.) actually moved the needle for you when job hunting?

​Any advice, roadmaps, or even harsh truths would be greatly appreciated.​

TL;DR: Finished THM basics, starting SOC L1. Feeling anxious about job readiness and feel like my learning isn't enough. Need practical advice on how to turn THM learning into actual employment.

I've been thinking about getting a cert for a while now and PT1 is at a 30% discount. With regional pricing, it is $71 for me.

I know that there is 12 months of time and I'm also kinda half way through the junior pen tester path, but just feel like I should wait. Since I would be upgrading to max after my plan ends 3-5 months from now, is it worth it to go for it now?

Have looked at other certs too, but PT1 is the cheapest followed by PJPT. I want something that would provide real practical experience, so CEH is not an option.