Hi Sinead,

Thanks for writing to us. I'm sorry to hear you are having a tough time moving into a new field, but it's great that you have thought of a new career path that is more conducive to the side-effects you are experiencing, and in-line with your educational background. Just identifying the next step is a huge accomplishment, as we see many people struggle to figure out what's next.

I have reached out to our career coaches for some insight, but in the meantime, I would think about ways you can network and using references, since they can speak to your ability and skillset, despite whatever may be being perceived. For instance, if you have a LinkedIn profile, can you ask past employers or coworkers to post a recommendation on your page?

Can you connect with others who are in the cyber-security field or perhaps in another business? Many different types of businesses need cyber-security professionals so even if you don't know someone who is a cyber-security expert, perhaps you know someone at a business that does. For tips on successful networking, click here.

In addition, I would read the following article, which provides information on how to manage disclosure during the job search and your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): https://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/job-search-disclosure/managing-disclosure-when-looking-for-a-job.

I hope this is helpful. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us at cancerandcareers@cew.org or 646-929-8032.

A coach will be in touch soon!

Kind regards,
Maddy Meislin, MPA
Senior Manager of Programs
Cancer and Careers

Dear Sinead,

I am sorry you are experiencing discrimination in your search. I agree with Maddy's advice regarding connecting with as many people as possible in cyber security on LinkedIn and in cyber security associations by taking an informational approach and to find people who will be your champion. You have great related work experience, relevant education and of course passion and this is what you want to stress. 

Sometimes, when I coach people with more obvious disabilities, I suggest that they mention it up front if they sense that the person is uncomfortable and then spin it to the positive things they bring to the table. Naturally you need to read the person and situation first to see how appropriate this seems. However now that I have said this, I think that if you keep persisting and meeting new people, you will uncover more leads. Also, would you consider finding an internship or a freelance project in cyber security to get some actual experience? Or hire someone in cyber security to coach you a bit about ways to present yourself for jobs in cyber security?

I wish there was a magic bullet however I really believe that someone will recognize your intelligence, focus, ambition, and strong interest and give you a chance. It just may take a bit longer then you expect or would like it to.

Please write back if you have additional questions or comments.

Take care,

Julie