I would really like to work as a SOC Analyst going into the field, I have my Security$+$ already so some other certifications that can help with this include GIAC Incident Response Handler, Certified Ethical Hacker $($CEH$),$ and eventually the Certified Information Systems Security Professional $($CISSP$).$ The CISSP requires $5$ years of work experience to obtain and is ultimately a validation of everything you've accomplished. It's proof you know your stuff and looks great to employers.