Some career changes are carefully planned. Others? They happen when you start asking yourself a crucial question–what’s missing in your job? For Ruchitha Chagal and Katta Dendanandarao, switching careers wasn’t straightforward. One had spent years navigating banking and market research, while the other delved into Data Science. But as technology evolved and threats became more sophisticated, they realized they didn’t just want to be bystanders; they wanted to be on the frontlines, securing the future.
Yet, doubts lingered. Were they too late? Did they have what it took to break into an industry filled with seasoned professionals? The overwhelming flood of free resources didn’t help; if anything, it made the journey more confusing. What they needed wasn’t just knowledge, but direction, mentorship, and a structured path. That’s when they found Great Learning’s Cyber Security program.
Finding the missing link: Ruchitha’s Journey to Cybersecurity Confidence
Born and raised in Nizamabad, Telangana, Ruchitha pursued her B.Sc. in Computer Science with the hope of building a technical career. But as life unfolded, she took up roles as a Relationship Executive in the banking sector and later as a Marketing Research Executive in a startup. While she gained valuable experience, something always felt missing.
Cyber Security had always intrigued her. It was a field filled with complexity, problem-solving, and ever-evolving challenges: exactly what she wanted in a career. But making a shift from a non-technical role to a technical one was easier said than done.
Doubt, hesitation, and taking the leap
“I was nervous. I questioned whether I could actually transition into Cyber Security. Would it be too late? Was I capable enough?” Ruchitha recalls. The world of online education seemed overwhelming, and she wasn’t sure if she could trust an online program to give her the skills she needed.
That changed when she came across Great Learning. “Skeptical but hopeful, I explored the program and its structured approach, mentored learning sessions, and hands-on projects. Something clicked, I knew this was the right path for me.”
Live mentor-led sessions made all the difference
Once she enrolled in the PG Program in Cyber Security, Ruchitha knew she had to give it her all. The mentored sessions became her anchor, allowing her to clarify doubts and deepen her understanding. The two-way interactive classes made learning engaging, and the hands-on projects gave her the confidence to apply what she was learning in real-world scenarios.
“The live mentor-led sessions were incredibly helpful. They weren’t just about theory; they focused on practical knowledge. That’s what made all the difference,” she shares.
A new beginning in Cyber Security
Ruchitha successfully transitioned into Cyber Security, achieving what once seemed impossible. She gained expertise in vulnerability assessments, attack scenarios, and risk management, skills she knew would help her thrive in the field. More importantly, she found her confidence.
To those considering making a similar shift, her advice is simple: “Don’t hesitate. If you’re passionate about anything, take the leap. The learning curve may seem steep, but with the right guidance, it’s absolutely achievable.”
Katta Dendanandarao’s Journey to Cybersecurity Mastery
Lost in a sea of information, but determined to learn:
Katta Dendanandarao completed his M.Sc. in Data Science at GITAM Vizag Campus and secured a role as an SME in Cyber Security and Data Science. It was here that his interest in Cyber Security deepened. He realized that he wanted to specialize in the field, particularly as an SOC Analyst or in information security.
But there was a problem: he didn’t know where to start. “I felt lost. I kept searching for the right learning path, but nothing seemed structured enough,” he admits. Like many, he turned to YouTube tutorials, only to find that scattered information couldn’t replace proper guidance.
Finding the right learning path
Determined to transition into Cyber Security, Katta began looking for courses that would provide structured learning, hands-on experience, and industry-relevant insights. After extensive research and recommendations, he found Great Learning.
“The reviews from previous learners were outstanding, and the curriculum was exactly what I was looking for. It covered everything: real-time attack scenarios, penetration testing, and vulnerability assessments,” he says.
The decision to enroll changed everything. The live mentor-led sessions gave him real-world insights, the hands-on projects made him industry-ready, and the one-on-one guidance helped him bridge knowledge gaps.
Mastering Cyber Security through practical learning
One of the biggest game-changers for Katta was the practical exposure. The program didn’t just focus on theoretical concepts; it provided real-world applications of Cyber Security principles. From learning how cyberattacks work to conducting Phishing Email Analysis and Penetration Testing, every module pushed him closer to his goal.
“My mentor was incredible. He didn’t just clear doubts; he introduced me to new tools, explained attack methodologies, and showed me how vulnerability assessments expose security flaws. That hands-on learning was invaluable,” Katta shares.
You don’t need to have it all figured out; you just need to start
Fast forward to today, and the uncertainty that once held them back is a distant memory. Ruchitha and Katta didn’t just switch careers; they redefined their professional identities. With hands-on training, expert mentorship, and relentless determination, they carved their space in the world of Cyber Security.
Their stories prove that career transitions aren’t about having all the answers from the start. They’re about taking that first step despite the fear, learning relentlessly, and proving, above all, to yourself that you are capable.
If you’re on the fence about Cyber Security, take it from them: You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to start.
