
Overwhelmed OffSec Analyst at 21 Seeks Career and Burnout Advice
burnoutcareer_adviceoffensive_securitycybersecurityscholarshipcertificationsisolationwork_life_balance
The post describes a 21-year-old offensive security analyst who rapidly advanced from a helpdesk role to an analyst position while completing a first-class computer science/cybersecurity degree. They are currently struggling with administrative delays in a scholarship-funded research project on supply chain attacks, stagnation in a low-paying corporate role, and burnout from over-preparing for certifications (CPSA, CEH) while managing side projects like CVE research and lab testing. The individual reports losing social connections, missing personal events, and feeling isolated due to their intense focus on career progression, though they remain driven by high expectations from family and mentors.