What made you decide to choose your specific major?
I chose to major in Game Development driven by my passion for technology, creativity, and storytelling, particularly inspired by games like "The Last of Us" that connect people through powerful narratives. My ambition is to contribute to the gaming industry by creating experiences that not only entertain but also bring players together and visualize complex concepts, such as space, in immersive ways. This major perfectly combines the artistic and technical challenges I'm eager to tackle, allowing me to innovate and make a meaningful impact in the field.
What are a couple of your favorite things about your program of study?
A couple of my favorite things about the Game Development program include the hands-on experience of actually creating games, which has always been a dream of mine. Additionally, the supportive faculty and staff enhance the learning experience, making it more enriching and accessible. The program's environment also makes it easy to get involved and find one's niche within the community, fostering both personal and professional growth.
What has been one of your favorite class projects?
One of my favorite class projects was for a game development course where our final assignment was to create a game. I seized this opportunity to delve into chaos physics within Unreal Engine, an area I was eager to explore. The game I developed is set in darkness, where targets sporadically appear. Players shoot at these targets, which then shatter into pieces, utilizing the chaos physics system to create a visually compelling and interactive experience.
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
I am involved with Purdue Student Government I am one of the directors for healing endeavors and empathy matters, Bonsai Club, Purdue SEARCH, and I am on the sub-team for software and we are currently in a competition called NASA Suits. I am apart of Swipe-out starvation, and Dataception, and I volunteer at the food pantry. Also, I am in two learning communities: Datamine and Boilerserve.
What do you know about your program of study now that you wish someone had told you when you were choosing a major?
Don't just focus on just your classes but try to gain experience outside the classroom. Go join clubs, go into undergraduate research, and just explore. I talk to so many alumni and they talk about how they learn a lot outside of the classroom. Therefore go explore and seek discomfort!
What would be one piece of advice for prospective students or new Purdue students?
Seek discomfort! Everyone here is friendly and willing to help out. I am a deep introvert inside and most people would probably disagree but I am. Go out and meet new people and network- I made so many connections and friends just with a simple "hi." Now, go out and seek discomfort, mate!