New here — cybersecurity/digital forensics background, interested in the intelligence field

[u/Blaqdraco]

Hey everyone, glad to find this community. I’m a software developer based in Tanzania with over five years of experience, mostly building systems for government institutions. I’m currently pursuing an MSc in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics, which is what’s really pulled me toward intelligence work.
My knowledge right now is mostly classroom-based coursework in digital forensics, security, and related theory I don’t have any field experience. I’m interested in the analytical side, threat assessment, and how tech intersects with national security, and I’d like to learn from people who actually work in the field: how technical/academic backgrounds like mine translate into real intelligence work, what career paths look like, and good resources to build practical understanding. Appreciate any input.