Game Development Reference
In-Depth Information
opportunity to learn on the job and network with seasoned professionals. If
you're a student at a school that offers game art courses, then it would be in
your best interest to find out if you can also get course credit for your intern-
ship. Many schools offer such opportunities.
Locating an internship in a gaming company is an excellent way to get career
experience in the industry. Keep in mind that you'll be competing with people
who are in school or recent graduates with a game art, animation, or program-
ming degree. If you aren't in school or don't have a degree at this time, that
shouldn't stop you from applying. There are plenty of opportunities to apply for
internships, and once you get one, you can learn a tremendous amount about
career pursuits and how the business works.
When you apply for an internship, demonstrating that you're enthusiastic
about the opportunity is a plus. If a specific area of gaming interests you, career-
wise, then indicate that. But if you aren't sure what area you're aiming for, it's
fine to be open to learning different parts of the business. Exposure from your
internship will help you understand how various jobs are accomplished and
what areas you may wish to pursue as a career.
In other words, if you're offered an interview for an internship, and you indi-
cate that you're so determined to do one thing and one thing only, then the
company interviewing you may believe you aren't interested in learning about
other parts of the business where the company needs an intern. The company
then may not want you on board. Being flexible is in your best interest.
applying for Jobs and internships
The bulk of your efforts in applying to any company will consist of assembling a
body of work that demonstrates your skills. If you don't have any yet (and even
if you do), you should prepare a clear, concise resume and cover letter to accom-
pany any demos or paperwork you submit that explains your career goals.
Research the company or companies you apply to so that you can understand
their products, what kinds of jobs they offer, what training they expect or offer
(entry-level positions sometimes offer training, especially with proprietary prod-
ucts the company uses), and how successful they have been. Startup companies
often promise the moon and want to rush you on board, and everything may
sound great, but they tend to be risky. More established companies, although
harder to get into, are well worth the effort of preparing application materials.
