What tools,projects,certs for a Cyber Security Portfolio?

Question

As a fresh grad, obviously I don't have working experience. I realised that when I get rejected after interviews too. I want to build a GitHub portfolio and start on projects and self-experiments. Of course, I will add many from uni projects like final year project and bigger projects done. But are there any good topics a fresh grad like me can do to prove my skills?

Next is tools. I know many ask familiarity with NMAP, Metasploit framework, OpenSSH, OSSEC, Tor etc. Are there any suggestions on what tools will be good to pick up and learn? I really want to improve myself because I chose this career out of pure interest only and am willing to do anything to learn.

Also, as a fresh grad, what certs do you think I should get? I have 2 EC Council certs (ECSS and CND) and am studying CEH and CHFI now. I am also planning a cert in Kali Linux to progress into OSCP. Should I do CEH practical? Is it useful? What else would you suggest?

Yeah, this is a very noob question. But I am feeling dejected about my continuous rejections and really want to do better so any help will be most appreciated.

About me: Computer Science major, specialised in Digital Systems Security, Diploma in Network Defense and Forensic Countermeasures, preparing for N4 Japanese and learning Hindi, Fluent in 3 other languages, fluent programming languages Java C++/C, semi fluent in SQL and PHP, considering learning python

Answer 1

That you mastering tools , why you not mastering cocenpt about that, securing design system or make your tool for you task. This maybe productivity advice than answering your question.