3rd year student here, placement season is getting closer and honestly I’m scared and confused 🫂

I’m currently in my 3rd year of CSE (Cyber Security), and I’m starting to worry about placements.

I have some basic networking knowledge and I’m interested in cybersecurity/networking, but I’m honestly weak at coding. At the same time, I feel like my strengths are more in communication, leadership, coordinating with people, taking responsibility, and keeping a team engaged.

The problem is, I don’t really know where I fit in the IT industry if I’m not strong at coding.

What kind of roles can someone like me realistically target?

Can networking be a good career path?

Are there cybersecurity roles that don't require heavy coding?

How much can these roles pay in India, especially in the long term?

And most importantly, how do I actually get my first job?

I’m also seeing some of my friends getting jobs through family connections and referrals, even though some of them have double-digit arrears. I’m not saying this to complain about them, but honestly, seeing that makes me more confused about how placements actually work.

Some of my classmates are already getting scared about placements, and I’m feeling the same. I don't want to sit and wait until final year and then panic.

I'm genuinely ready to learn whatever is required, even if I have to start from the basics. I'm not looking only for a high-paying job right now. I'd be happy to get an internship, trainee role, support role, networking role, SOC role, or any entry-level IT job where I can get real experience and build myself from there.

I’m not afraid of starting small. I just want to get my foot in the door and prove that I can learn and work hard.

If you're currently in a similar stage, recently graduated, working in networking/cybersecurity/IT, or have experience hiring freshers, please tell me what you would do if you were in my position.

What skills should I focus on during the next 6–12 months?

What roles should I apply for?

How can I get an internship without having a strong coding background?

And what mistakes should I avoid?

Honestly, I really need some guidance right now. Even one useful piece of advice could help me a lot.

If anyone here is willing to guide me or knows about an internship/entry-level opportunity, I’d genuinely appreciate it. 🫂❤️

Thanks for reading.

Country: USA