Issue 42  January 28th 2024

Mentor Interview: Edwin Brockner, FIP, CISSP-ISSAP (A Mentor of our Mentorship Program) by Bryon Singh

Bryon: Tell me about yourself?

Ed: Initially, while pursuing my bachelor's degree in information technology, I interned at an accounting, tax, and advisory firm in a help desk/junior systems administration role. I was later brought on full-time. After I started earning certifications like CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst+, and passing the ISC2's CISSP, I was recruited by the firm's cybersecurity and privacy advisory arm and became a senior associate. In this position, I gained diverse experience, from conducting ITGC and ITAC assessments to performing external penetration tests and enhancing privacy programs. Subsequently, I joined Valley Bank as a Senior Privacy Analyst, where I monitor compliance with privacy regulations and perform privacy impact assessments, recommending mitigation plans for identified risks.

Bryon: What are you currently working on, aside from your certification collection?

Ed: I've recently completed my last course for my master's degree in privacy law and cybersecurity from Seton Hall University's School of Law. This program is designed for non-lawyers who would benefit from advanced legal knowledge and problem-solving skills. I'm keeping the door open to pursuing a Juris Doctor degree in the future, so I'm studying for the LSAT. As of January, I joined the IAPP's New Jersey Chapter as a co-chair for the 2024 and 2025 terms. There, I'll be working with other co-chairs to organize educational and networking events focused on privacy. I also mentor when I find the opportunity.

Bryon: You are part of our mentorship program. How is that going?

Ed: I started as a mentee and eventually transitioned to a mentor because no matter how long you've been in the field, someone can always benefit from your experience and/or insight. As a mentee, I gained an outside perspective from professionals in the information security field, which helped me refine my career goals and improve my resume. As a mentor, I enjoy offering my thoughts and guidance, especially on effective communication with peers and managers, something I used to struggle with significantly.

Bryon: What was your most challenging certification?

Ed: I don't think there's a 'most challenging' certification, as each has its own unique aspects. However, the designation I value most for my line of work is the IAPP's Fellow of Information Privacy (FIP). It requires passing two different certification exams, documenting relevant work experience, crafting a personal statement, and submitting three letters of recommendation from peers familiar with your work.

Bryon: What were your study methods like?

Ed: I had poor study habits in high school and college. So, when preparing for certification exams, I learned how to study effectively and now have a structured method derived from medical students' habits. I read through the recommended material, whether it's an official study guide or a book. Instead of summarizing or highlighting as I read, I create numerous flashcards on specific topics using the Anki app. Flashcards, along with practice questions, are ideal for active recall/active retrieval study methods. I practice with the flashcards until the exam date is close, then focus on practice questions to mentally prepare. Generally, I avoid videos or re-reading.

Bryon: What was your exam experience like, and what could you have focused on more post-exam?

Ed: I enjoy taking certification exams because they offer a unique mix of anxiety and anticipation. The uncertainty of not knowing the exact nature of the questions adds to the challenge, but it's manageable once I'm in the chair. In hindsight, I would study a bit less for the exams because at some point, diminishing returns kick in on studying.

ISC2 NJ Chapter  

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We now have over 380 members on our Discord Server!

By adding a Discord server to the mix of our communication tools, we now have real-time collaboration between our members 24/7. Looking for a job or for some advice on bettering yourself on the job? find it here !

Our Discord Server is a dynamic hub for job seekers, offering firsthand job opportunities in various IT and Cyber positions from chapter members. It's also a resource for members seeking internships, aiming to enhance their skill sets, or wanting to share resumes for reviews and feedback, including interview skills assistance. In addition to our website and newsletter, we announce upcoming events through Discord Server notifications. You'll receive regular reminders, so you won’t miss out on our engaging events! Moreover, our mentorship program is hosted on Discord, facilitating interaction with mentors during your cohort.

For those members that want to communicate on a variety of topics between meetings using Discord, just send Ken an email at president@isc2chapternj.org to get the link.

We are looking for volunteers to help make Discord a better and fun place. Please reach out to Bryon Singh at bryon@isc2chapternj.org with ideas or ping him on Discord!

The members of the Discord Committee are Bryon Singh, Tran Cheung, Giovanni Mercado, John Linkowsky , Krishna Nekkalapudi, Matthew Lang, Michael LeBlanc, Nikunj Shah, Brett Smith and Saurabh Sagdeo.

ISC2 NJ Chapter