2024 was a whirlwind year for me, filled with challenges, growth, and accomplishments that have significantly shaped my personal and professional life. Two of the most defining milestones were landing a new job in April and passing the BTL1 exam in August—a journey that tested my perseverance, time management, and dedication.
The BTL1 Exam: A Three-Month Sprint
After settling into my new job, I decided to tackle a long-standing goal—earning the BTL1 certification. I knew I needed a hands-on practical cert to go along with my theoretical knowledge. In addition, I wanted to improve as a SOC analyst. The decision wasn’t easy. Balancing a demanding job and preparing for a rigorous exam within a three-month timeframe seemed ambitious, but I was determined to make it happen.
The first step was creating a study plan. I broke down the syllabus into manageable sections and allocated specific topics to each week. I set asidean hour daily for focused study and utilized weekends for practice exams and review. To stay consistent, I treated my study sessions as non-negotiable appointments, just like work meetings or personal commitments. I dove in BTLO for many practical labs.
In August, after three months of disciplined preparation, I took the exam. Walking out of the testing center, I felt a mix of relief and anticipation. When I received the results and saw I had passed, it was a moment of pure joy and validation. The certification not only boosted my confidence but also reinforced the value of setting ambitious goals and working diligently toward them.
