From Student to Cybersecurity Professional: Meet Khoi Tran
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, cybersecurity professionals play an increasingly critical role in protecting organizations from cyber threats. A growing number of students are gaining real-world cybersecurity expertise through innovative public-private partnerships that combine hands-on Security Operations Center (SOC) training with structured oversight and mentorship. These programs, like the one pioneered by Louisiana State University, TekStream, and Splunk, equip students with practical skills beyond what traditional academic curricula provide. By working in an operational SOC, students learn to differentiate threat severity, assess risk, implement remediation, and communicate effectively, all while developing the experience needed to transition into cybersecurity roles immediately after graduation.
A Journey from Software Engineering to Cybersecurity
One such rising cybersecurity professional is Khoi Tran, a soon-to-be graduate with SOC experience at LSU. Khoi Tran, a 21-year-old first-generation Vietnamese American, is set to graduate from Louisiana State University (LSU) in May 2025 with a degree in Computer Science, specializing in Software Engineering. Initially drawn to software development and web creation, Khoi soon realized the competitive nature of the field and sought ways to expand his career opportunities. His turning point came after taking an Intro to Cybersecurity class taught by Darrel Miller, where he was introduced to a role at the Louisiana Optical Network Infrastructure Security Operations Center (LONI SOC). Since then, Khoi has dedicated himself to the world of cybersecurity.
Hands-On Experience in a Security Operations Center
For nearly a year, Khoi has worked in the LONI SOC @ LSU, gaining invaluable real-world experience in cybersecurity operations. His responsibilities have included monitoring and responding to security events, analyzing threats, and collaborating with team members to mitigate risks. Over 11 months, Khoi has addressed 1,165 security events, successfully identifying 32 true positive threats and earning an impressive average audit score of 4.8 out of a 5 point scale.
One of the most memorable incidents Khoi worked on involved a brute force attack detection. Although he initially made an error in identifying the correct server, he quickly learned from his mistake with guidance from a mentor, Michael Fazely. This experience reinforced his belief that every incident is an opportunity to refine his skills and become a stronger cybersecurity professional.
Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals
Khoi encourages students considering a career in cybersecurity to stay hungry and curious. He emphasizes the importance of being attentive, determined, and proactive—as cyber threats won’t wait for anyone who hesitates. His journey is a testament to the power of persistence and adaptability in this ever-evolving field.
What Makes Khoi Stand Out?
Khoi thrives in collaborative environments and values teamwork in cybersecurity operations. He appreciates the ability to seek guidance from peers and believes that staying vocal and asking questions is essential to mastering cybersecurity investigations. His proactive mindset and adaptability make him an excellent candidate for a security analyst role in a fast-paced organization.
With a strong academic foundation, real-world SOC experience, and a passion for cybersecurity, Khoi Tran is a standout candidate for any organization looking to strengthen its security team. His ability to learn from challenges, collaborate effectively, and stay committed to professional growth makes him a valuable asset to any cybersecurity department.
Looking Ahead: Career Aspirations
As Khoi approaches graduation, he is eager to secure a full-time entry-level security analyst position, whether in-person or remote. As he takes the next step in his career, Khoi is excited to contribute to a team that values innovation, security, and continuous learning. If you’re looking for a dedicated cybersecurity professional with hands-on experience and a drive to succeed, Khoi Tran is ready to make an impact!
Let us know if you’re interested in learning more about Khoi and his SOC experience!
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