Hey everyone. Figured the ol' dtoid blog was as good a place as any to post this little quandary I'm having.
So...I'm thinking about trying to break into the industry, and was wondering what resources or advice any of you may have.
For some history; I'm currently a 28 year old higher education professional working at Florida State University in Event Planning and Space Reservations (LOOK AT THOSE TRANSFERABLE SKILLS! I'm such a catch) My problem is that I don't really see myself doing this for the rest of my life, and my recent dissatisfaction with my career (a field I've been in since I was 18) has made it obvious that I should probably try and pursue one of my passions, namely, working in the video game industry. (Other passion? Sports. Which is why I'm also thinking about pursuing a career in event planning at a sports venue, we'll see which of these 2 is more reasonable).
My problems and issues are many, and I'll try and outline them for you (so that you may mock me mercilessly):
1. No programming experience whatever.
2. No professional writing experience (my master's was in history, so I wrote CONSTANTLY, but I'm not sure it's the same thing, eh? Also, I've got some blog posts here...but I have no idea if my writing is any good )
3. I'm hesitant about the whole 'starting over' thing, especially considering that since I do have a job, I may be looking a gift horse in the mouth as it were. Jobs ain't exactly falling from the sky in this economy.
4. I'm getting married next May (woot!) and my fiancee is firmly dedicated to the idea of a higher education career, so I have to respect her career desires as well.
5. I literally do not know where to begin. Which is why I'm hoping all of you wonderful people will have ideas for me to plunder.
In a perfect world I could see myself doing PR or Production, but it seems that to even get a foot in the door I need basic programming skills or the ability to write well. What do you folks think? Is there any hope for me? Any advice or thoughts on the matter would be greatly appreciated. Thankfully, since I do work at a university, the option to take courses related to the specific skill-set required in the industry is available to me. Thanks in advance people.
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This will help you. Seriously, read it.
Neither do half the people going to school for Game Design and Development majors.
Trust me, I'm one of those majors and I'm in the minority knowing what an array is.
If you can (and only if you can), go back to school and take a few Computer Science classes. They'll help you get the gist of Java, which can give you a foundation in learning other languages.
Many gamers dream of one day making a living designing video games themselves. A video game job is possible, but a job working as a video game designer is usually earned from years of experience doing other work in this field. Fortunately there are many types of jobs from which to choose, both on the technical side and on the business side of the industry. And what a booming industry it is.
Best wishes for your bright Future...
Regards
___________
<a href="http://sarawholesaler.com/iphone-cases-covers-wholesale.html">iPhone Cases</a>
Many gamers dream of one day making a living designing video games themselves. A video game job is possible, but a job working as a video game designer is usually earned from years of experience doing other work in this field. Fortunately there are many types of jobs from which to choose, both on the technical side and on the business side of the industry. And what a booming industry it is.
Best wishes for your bright Future...
Regards
___________
<a href="http://sarawholesaler.com/iphone-cases-covers-wholesale.html/">iPhone Cases</a>
It's not easy getting into the business but if you are looking to further your education towards this dream, I would definitely suggest web based programming (java, HTML 5, etc). Combined with your event planning background this could yield you an entry level job in that area. If you're not already using Twitter/Facebook I would also suggest strong education/use in that area as well. Additionally, you might also want to start blogging regularly to build up a body of work that can be used on a resume.
These positions are not particularly well paid, but there is some opportunity for growth, particularly if you are good at both web based events and live events.
Be aware though that the gaming business is not generally a secure job. Companies are bought, sold and go out of business often. Positions are often cut after the launch of a game and they simply re-hire new people after the development cycle and when they are launching a new game. Like many other businesses, you almost have to regard yourself as an independent contractor and have to be willing to relocate to take new positions. It's just the nature of the business.
If you like that sense of excitement and the constant change, then that's fine... but sports likely offers more stable employment.
Look at job descriptions in the gaming field (gamasutra often has some)... that's the best way to build up a list of required skills for jobs in the industry.
Best of luck!
I think the first thing you need to do is to see what you are better at it and focus from there, but not forgetting other important parts of the business.
@Elsa: I KNEW you would respond. Thanks for the tips. I appreciate the insight.
@Henriquegds: Lol, thanks for trying!