7 answers
Rashmitha
Student
Winter Garden, Florida
5
Questions
Asked
1871 views
What to do with a Video Game Design Degree?
One of my friends has graduated with a bachelor's in video game design. However, after a year, she has been unable to find a job, and her parents are pressuring her to pivot drastically into nursing. I don't think it's a good idea and I want to help her research her options. What can she do now?
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7 answers
Garima Lajras
Illustrator, 2D animator, Graphic Designer, UX/UI Designer
73
Answers
Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
Updated
Garima’s Answer
Hello Rashmitha,
You're such a good friend for wanting to help her through this! A degree in video game design can feel like a tricky path sometimes, but it definitely doesn't mean her options are limited. Right now industry is very competitive and uncertain, but there are some other opportunities out there sometimes it just takes a little exploring to find the right fit. Let’s look at some ways she can move forward without completely pivoting away from her passion.
1. Broadening the Job Search
• Game Studios:
Even if she’s not landing her dream role right away, applying for positions like level designer, environment artist, or QA tester can help her get her foot in the door. Many people work their way up from entry-level roles.
• Indie Studios & Smaller Projects:
Indie game development can be a fantastic way to build experience. Freelancing or contributing to smaller projects shows initiative and helps grow her portfolio.
• Post-Grad Internships:
Some studios offer internships or apprenticeships after graduation, which can lead to long-term roles. It’s never too late to apply.
2. Exploring Transferable Skills
• UX/UI Design:
Video game design overlaps a lot with user experience and interface design, which are super in demand in tech.
• 3D Modeling/Animation:
Fields like film, architecture, and advertising often seek designers with skills in modeling, animation, and world-building.
• Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented Reality (AR):
VR/AR is booming across industries like healthcare, education, and real estate. Her design skills could translate perfectly.
3. Further Specialization
If she wants to stand out, she could take short courses in areas like animation, VR, or coding. Specializing just a little more can make her an even stronger candidate.
4. Freelance or Indie Projects
Freelancing or working on indie projects can help her grow her portfolio and gain recognition. Platforms like itch.io are amazing for launching personal projects and getting feedback.
5. Networking & Community
Game jams, online forums, and events like GDC are not just fun but incredible for meeting people in the industry. Sometimes, connections made here can open unexpected doors.
I totally understand why her parents might feel worried, but she doesn’t have to abandon her passion. It’s okay for the path to take time and have twists and turns. The important thing is she’s building toward something she loves. Please remind her to stay patient and kind to herself. She’s got this.
I hope this helps, and I wish her the best of luck in her journey.
You're such a good friend for wanting to help her through this! A degree in video game design can feel like a tricky path sometimes, but it definitely doesn't mean her options are limited. Right now industry is very competitive and uncertain, but there are some other opportunities out there sometimes it just takes a little exploring to find the right fit. Let’s look at some ways she can move forward without completely pivoting away from her passion.
1. Broadening the Job Search
• Game Studios:
Even if she’s not landing her dream role right away, applying for positions like level designer, environment artist, or QA tester can help her get her foot in the door. Many people work their way up from entry-level roles.
• Indie Studios & Smaller Projects:
Indie game development can be a fantastic way to build experience. Freelancing or contributing to smaller projects shows initiative and helps grow her portfolio.
• Post-Grad Internships:
Some studios offer internships or apprenticeships after graduation, which can lead to long-term roles. It’s never too late to apply.
2. Exploring Transferable Skills
• UX/UI Design:
Video game design overlaps a lot with user experience and interface design, which are super in demand in tech.
• 3D Modeling/Animation:
Fields like film, architecture, and advertising often seek designers with skills in modeling, animation, and world-building.
• Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented Reality (AR):
VR/AR is booming across industries like healthcare, education, and real estate. Her design skills could translate perfectly.
3. Further Specialization
If she wants to stand out, she could take short courses in areas like animation, VR, or coding. Specializing just a little more can make her an even stronger candidate.
4. Freelance or Indie Projects
Freelancing or working on indie projects can help her grow her portfolio and gain recognition. Platforms like itch.io are amazing for launching personal projects and getting feedback.
5. Networking & Community
Game jams, online forums, and events like GDC are not just fun but incredible for meeting people in the industry. Sometimes, connections made here can open unexpected doors.
I totally understand why her parents might feel worried, but she doesn’t have to abandon her passion. It’s okay for the path to take time and have twists and turns. The important thing is she’s building toward something she loves. Please remind her to stay patient and kind to herself. She’s got this.
I hope this helps, and I wish her the best of luck in her journey.
Braisha Owens Mount
Fashion Designer
17
Answers
Columbus, Ohio
Updated
Braisha’s Answer
This is a tough situation because I understand the appeal of having a Plan A and Plan B, especially when parents prioritize stability and want you to have a steady income. However, if nursing isn’t your passion, it’s not the kind of career you should pursue just for the money. Nursing involves dealing with people’s health and well-being, and that’s not something to take lightly. You need to be truly called to that work because it’s about more than just earning a paycheck—it’s about compassion, care, and responsibility.
I hate seeing people choose nursing just because it’s financially rewarding, without asking themselves if it’s something they’re genuinely passionate about. If money is the only motivator, that’s not a good reason to go down that path.
When it comes to pursuing a career in video game development, freelancing might be a great way to start. They could focus on building a portfolio and pitching their services to media companies, producers, or other creative groups. As someone mentioned, they should also explore transferable skills that could lead to opportunities in related fields, like animation or cartoon production. These industries still allow for creativity and could serve as stepping stones while pursuing their dream.
The healthcare field and creative industries are so different—one is a necessity, and the other is rooted in passion and enjoyment. It’s important to stick with what truly aligns with their skills and passions. That said, I get the challenges of navigating parental expectations. It’s hard to balance their advice with your own autonomy, but ultimately, they need to take control of their own life and pursue what they’re called to do.
In the short term, it might be wise to find a stable job that provides financial security—maybe something in retail management or a similar role—while keeping video game development as the ultimate goal. That way, they can put food on the table now while continuing to look for opportunities to grow their creative career. It’s not easy, but it’s a practical way to work toward their dreams.
I hate seeing people choose nursing just because it’s financially rewarding, without asking themselves if it’s something they’re genuinely passionate about. If money is the only motivator, that’s not a good reason to go down that path.
When it comes to pursuing a career in video game development, freelancing might be a great way to start. They could focus on building a portfolio and pitching their services to media companies, producers, or other creative groups. As someone mentioned, they should also explore transferable skills that could lead to opportunities in related fields, like animation or cartoon production. These industries still allow for creativity and could serve as stepping stones while pursuing their dream.
The healthcare field and creative industries are so different—one is a necessity, and the other is rooted in passion and enjoyment. It’s important to stick with what truly aligns with their skills and passions. That said, I get the challenges of navigating parental expectations. It’s hard to balance their advice with your own autonomy, but ultimately, they need to take control of their own life and pursue what they’re called to do.
In the short term, it might be wise to find a stable job that provides financial security—maybe something in retail management or a similar role—while keeping video game development as the ultimate goal. That way, they can put food on the table now while continuing to look for opportunities to grow their creative career. It’s not easy, but it’s a practical way to work toward their dreams.
Greg Kearney
Editorial cartoonist
4
Answers
Topeka, Kansas
Updated
Greg’s Answer
While it is always good idea to have a skill that can put food on the table, nursing is radically different from what her degree is in and she will be starting from scratch in her education.
Rather than nursing I would suggest something like becoming an electrician or a network manager which can be done in a shorter time frame and are related to her degree more closely.
Rather than nursing I would suggest something like becoming an electrician or a network manager which can be done in a shorter time frame and are related to her degree more closely.
Emily Garcia
Graphic Designer
1
Answer
Apple Valley, California
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hello Rashmitha,
I understand your friend is going through a challenging situation, and it's great that you are willing to help your friend explore all the possibilities within the video game industry. Breaking into the industry can be tough with the competitive job market, but a degree in Video Game Design still opens up a wide array of opportunities beyond just being a game designer.
1. Building a Strong Portfolio
A well-crafted portfolio is essential for landing a job/internship for any designer. If she hasn't already, I would encourage your friend to build a strong portfolio showcasing her work. This can be a combination of personal projects, open-source contributions on platform like GitHub, or participating in Game Jams if she has done any.
2. Networking
Continue to try to network within the industry as much as she can. Even if it's only for an internship to start out, that is still perfectly okay as it will help her gain experience and make valuable connections within the industry. There are a number of ways she can find networking and forming connections that will help her to start out with. Being active in online communities like Discord or LinkedIn groups related to game development is one of the ways to help her seek out connections with others and can lead to potential job opportunities. If she doesn't have a LinkedIn, I would consider making one and updating her profile to highlight her skills and experience so industry professionals will be able to see her qualifications as well as connecting with them to get her noticed more.
3. Internships/Apprenticeships
Many game studios, even smaller ones, offer internships that can last for months or even a year depending on their qualifications. These positions may not be full-time or some might not pay, but they will still help her provide essential industry experience and can even lead to full-time position.
4. Exploring Related Industries
If your friend is still passionate about game design but isn't finding opportunities in the traditional game industry yet, there are related sectors where she can still use her skills and will still be valuable. These can be with VR/AR Development, Simulation Software, or even Mobile App Development.
I understand her parent's concerns about her career prospects with how difficult it is to land a job/internship/etc. However, game design can offer many opportunities if pursued strategically. Help your friend try to explore these possibilities and find what excites her the most. It's about building a career path that aligns with her passions while being pragmatic in the approach. Encourage her to always stay persistent no matter the outcome of what lies ahead of her. Many successful game designers started off with small projects, internships, or freelancing before evolving into doing something better, so her skills that she's learning can still lead her to exciting opportunities across multiple industries.
I hope this helps you and your friend out tremendously and I am always looking forward to helping out more if needed!
Warmest Regards,
Emily Garcia
I understand your friend is going through a challenging situation, and it's great that you are willing to help your friend explore all the possibilities within the video game industry. Breaking into the industry can be tough with the competitive job market, but a degree in Video Game Design still opens up a wide array of opportunities beyond just being a game designer.
1. Building a Strong Portfolio
A well-crafted portfolio is essential for landing a job/internship for any designer. If she hasn't already, I would encourage your friend to build a strong portfolio showcasing her work. This can be a combination of personal projects, open-source contributions on platform like GitHub, or participating in Game Jams if she has done any.
2. Networking
Continue to try to network within the industry as much as she can. Even if it's only for an internship to start out, that is still perfectly okay as it will help her gain experience and make valuable connections within the industry. There are a number of ways she can find networking and forming connections that will help her to start out with. Being active in online communities like Discord or LinkedIn groups related to game development is one of the ways to help her seek out connections with others and can lead to potential job opportunities. If she doesn't have a LinkedIn, I would consider making one and updating her profile to highlight her skills and experience so industry professionals will be able to see her qualifications as well as connecting with them to get her noticed more.
3. Internships/Apprenticeships
Many game studios, even smaller ones, offer internships that can last for months or even a year depending on their qualifications. These positions may not be full-time or some might not pay, but they will still help her provide essential industry experience and can even lead to full-time position.
4. Exploring Related Industries
If your friend is still passionate about game design but isn't finding opportunities in the traditional game industry yet, there are related sectors where she can still use her skills and will still be valuable. These can be with VR/AR Development, Simulation Software, or even Mobile App Development.
I understand her parent's concerns about her career prospects with how difficult it is to land a job/internship/etc. However, game design can offer many opportunities if pursued strategically. Help your friend try to explore these possibilities and find what excites her the most. It's about building a career path that aligns with her passions while being pragmatic in the approach. Encourage her to always stay persistent no matter the outcome of what lies ahead of her. Many successful game designers started off with small projects, internships, or freelancing before evolving into doing something better, so her skills that she's learning can still lead her to exciting opportunities across multiple industries.
I hope this helps you and your friend out tremendously and I am always looking forward to helping out more if needed!
Warmest Regards,
Emily Garcia
Braisha Owens Mount
Fashion Designer
17
Answers
Columbus, Ohio
Updated
Braisha’s Answer
This is a tough one because I do understand a and B plans, especially with parents want you to have some stable income but even as a nurse, you don’t wanna be a nurse at anyone if that’s not your passion cause you’re dealing with people and their livelihood and their their health and you wanna make sure you are really caught to do that cause that’s not something to play around with just because it makes money. I hate that people always take the nursing route when it’s like are you passionate about this or no because if you just need it for the money then that is not a good idea. But when it comes to the video game, this is something that they could probably look into for freelancing right so maybe just build a portfolio up and then kind of pitch their services to different Media groups and producers things that that nature, and in like the other person said see what transferable skills can get you another job that’s on the same line. It’s not video game maybe animation maybe cartoon you know something of that nature that they can still be creative with because that is definitely a different healthcare and creative feels it’s like not even the same you know one is necessity one is a pleasure and they’re so stick to the one that they’re just called to do when they’re good at I think that would just be the best suggestion for them and I understand when it comes to parents you have to You know you’re listening to what they’re saying and that is your parent, but they have to take autonomy over their life and do what they feel is best for them to do easier said than done cause I went through that as well, but maybe get a job that can just provide for them now and then keep Video gave me on the side and do what they have to do you know just let that be the ultimate goal but do something that will put food on the table. I really nursing cause that’s a whole lot route of schooling but even just in retail management something that can provide for them now and then just always looking for video game opportunities or things along that Line.
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
202
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Rashmitha, first of all, your friend needs a standing ovation for surviving both a bachelor’s degree and the post-grad abyss! 🎉 Now let’s tackle this like a video game quest—Level 1: Career Options, Level 2: Parental Boss Fight, Level 3: Finding Passion-Powered Success.
Level 1: What to Do with a Video Game Design Degree
A video game design degree is like a Swiss Army knife for creative tech careers. If your friend isn’t leveling up in gaming jobs, it’s time to explore other areas where those skills shine. Here’s the loot chest of options:
Indie Game Development:
Go rogue! With platforms like Steam or itch.io, your friend can create and sell their own games. (Bonus: They can be their own boss and wear pajamas to work.)
UI/UX Design:
Designing interfaces for apps, websites, and software isn’t as flashy as video games, but it’s a great way to flex those creative muscles—and it pays like a gold coin jackpot.
Animation and 3D Modeling:
Movies, TV shows, and even advertising agencies need animators and modelers. Imagine designing the next Shrek. Legendary.
Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR):
The VR/AR industry is booming—perfect for someone who knows their way around immersive experiences.
Esports or Gaming Content Creation:
If your friend has charisma and a decent gaming rig, they could stream games, review them, or create YouTube content. (Think PewDiePie but with less yelling.)
Game Writing or Narrative Design:
If they’ve got storytelling chops, gaming companies need writers to craft plots and dialogue that keep players hooked.
Freelance Projects:
Websites like Upwork and Fiverr are great for picking up side quests that build experience (and a bank account).
Level 2: The Parental Boss Fight
Ah, the classic, “Why don’t you just become a nurse?” conversation. Here’s the deal: Switching careers just to appease parents can feel like playing a game you don’t even like—and on hard mode. Sure, nursing is stable and noble, but if your friend isn’t passionate about it, it’ll likely lead to burnout and regret.
If the parents are open to discussion:
Highlight her gaming skills as practical and transferable (coding, design, problem-solving).
Share success stories of non-traditional career paths in gaming.
If the parents aren’t open (final boss difficulty):
She should respectfully explain that career satisfaction directly impacts long-term happiness and health. A stressed nurse isn’t going to thrive.
Level 3: Tips for Success
Polish the Portfolio: Employers love to see what candidates can do. Help your friend create an impressive portfolio showcasing their best work.
Network Like Crazy: Encourage them to attend gaming conventions, join forums like GameDev.net, or connect on LinkedIn. Sometimes, it’s who you know that gets you that first big break.
Upskill: If jobs are scarce, adding a coding language (like Python or C#) or learning a new game engine (Unity, Unreal) can make a huge difference.
Freelance for Experience: Gaining small wins can lead to bigger opportunities.
Bonus Cheat Code: Follow Passion
A career isn’t just about money; it’s about what keeps you from hitting the snooze button every morning. If your friend loves gaming, encourage them to keep pushing forward. But if they genuinely find nursing intriguing, that’s great too! (Just make sure they’re not doing it to “win parental approval points.”)
So, tell your friend: Life is like a game. Sometimes you get stuck on a level, but the solution is always there—just try a different strategy. And remind them: No one ever “won the game” by playing it safe. 🎮💡
Level 1: What to Do with a Video Game Design Degree
A video game design degree is like a Swiss Army knife for creative tech careers. If your friend isn’t leveling up in gaming jobs, it’s time to explore other areas where those skills shine. Here’s the loot chest of options:
Indie Game Development:
Go rogue! With platforms like Steam or itch.io, your friend can create and sell their own games. (Bonus: They can be their own boss and wear pajamas to work.)
UI/UX Design:
Designing interfaces for apps, websites, and software isn’t as flashy as video games, but it’s a great way to flex those creative muscles—and it pays like a gold coin jackpot.
Animation and 3D Modeling:
Movies, TV shows, and even advertising agencies need animators and modelers. Imagine designing the next Shrek. Legendary.
Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR):
The VR/AR industry is booming—perfect for someone who knows their way around immersive experiences.
Esports or Gaming Content Creation:
If your friend has charisma and a decent gaming rig, they could stream games, review them, or create YouTube content. (Think PewDiePie but with less yelling.)
Game Writing or Narrative Design:
If they’ve got storytelling chops, gaming companies need writers to craft plots and dialogue that keep players hooked.
Freelance Projects:
Websites like Upwork and Fiverr are great for picking up side quests that build experience (and a bank account).
Level 2: The Parental Boss Fight
Ah, the classic, “Why don’t you just become a nurse?” conversation. Here’s the deal: Switching careers just to appease parents can feel like playing a game you don’t even like—and on hard mode. Sure, nursing is stable and noble, but if your friend isn’t passionate about it, it’ll likely lead to burnout and regret.
If the parents are open to discussion:
Highlight her gaming skills as practical and transferable (coding, design, problem-solving).
Share success stories of non-traditional career paths in gaming.
If the parents aren’t open (final boss difficulty):
She should respectfully explain that career satisfaction directly impacts long-term happiness and health. A stressed nurse isn’t going to thrive.
Level 3: Tips for Success
Polish the Portfolio: Employers love to see what candidates can do. Help your friend create an impressive portfolio showcasing their best work.
Network Like Crazy: Encourage them to attend gaming conventions, join forums like GameDev.net, or connect on LinkedIn. Sometimes, it’s who you know that gets you that first big break.
Upskill: If jobs are scarce, adding a coding language (like Python or C#) or learning a new game engine (Unity, Unreal) can make a huge difference.
Freelance for Experience: Gaining small wins can lead to bigger opportunities.
Bonus Cheat Code: Follow Passion
A career isn’t just about money; it’s about what keeps you from hitting the snooze button every morning. If your friend loves gaming, encourage them to keep pushing forward. But if they genuinely find nursing intriguing, that’s great too! (Just make sure they’re not doing it to “win parental approval points.”)
So, tell your friend: Life is like a game. Sometimes you get stuck on a level, but the solution is always there—just try a different strategy. And remind them: No one ever “won the game” by playing it safe. 🎮💡
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1955
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Rashmitha !
What a fun, exciting and creative degree your friend has ! There are opportunities for her field in Florida. She may need to be more persistent, take more active steps and I am sure something will come her way.
In Florida, they use Video Game Narrative Designers, Coding/Video Game Design/STEM Instructor/Tutors, there are Remote Video Game Jobs, and she can also apply to be a Game Developer, a position of which there are many in Florida.
First, tell your friend that she needs to take a step back and assess any personal or professional barriers that may be preventing her from obtaining a career job. Once she has cleared the air of the barriers, she should continue to apply for work as a Game Designer. She also can start her own service business working from home. Another thing she is able to access as an alumnus of her college, is obtaining information from her college Career Center. Active steps like these will surely improve your friend's situation. Tell her that websites such as Indeed, Zip Recruiter and Linked In have employment opportunities to apply to.
She can also do a Data Entry job on site or online to have some money coming in while applying for a career job. She needs to cover a lot of ground, send out many resumes per week and if she doesn't have the experience, she can do volunteer work at the library teaching kids or any volunteer position connected to computer work that she can do.
You are correct. No one becomes a Nurse because someone is pressuring them to and yes, nursing is a drastically different career than computer work. Remind your friend that she has gained a lot of self direction through her college experience and that although she should respect her parents, she needs to do what is reasonable, logical and productive to her career goal - not someone else's idea about it. Let her know that she is capable of having the career she wants, one that she has chosen. But she needs to look at the options I have mentioned and take action.
Do ask more questions for your friend or encourage her to come here herself to ask anything that may be on her mind. Maybe she needs to jump the hurdle of barriers or needs referrals for job websites, all are welcome here. You are a good friend to help her out and I wish you and your friend all the best !
What a fun, exciting and creative degree your friend has ! There are opportunities for her field in Florida. She may need to be more persistent, take more active steps and I am sure something will come her way.
In Florida, they use Video Game Narrative Designers, Coding/Video Game Design/STEM Instructor/Tutors, there are Remote Video Game Jobs, and she can also apply to be a Game Developer, a position of which there are many in Florida.
First, tell your friend that she needs to take a step back and assess any personal or professional barriers that may be preventing her from obtaining a career job. Once she has cleared the air of the barriers, she should continue to apply for work as a Game Designer. She also can start her own service business working from home. Another thing she is able to access as an alumnus of her college, is obtaining information from her college Career Center. Active steps like these will surely improve your friend's situation. Tell her that websites such as Indeed, Zip Recruiter and Linked In have employment opportunities to apply to.
She can also do a Data Entry job on site or online to have some money coming in while applying for a career job. She needs to cover a lot of ground, send out many resumes per week and if she doesn't have the experience, she can do volunteer work at the library teaching kids or any volunteer position connected to computer work that she can do.
You are correct. No one becomes a Nurse because someone is pressuring them to and yes, nursing is a drastically different career than computer work. Remind your friend that she has gained a lot of self direction through her college experience and that although she should respect her parents, she needs to do what is reasonable, logical and productive to her career goal - not someone else's idea about it. Let her know that she is capable of having the career she wants, one that she has chosen. But she needs to look at the options I have mentioned and take action.
Do ask more questions for your friend or encourage her to come here herself to ask anything that may be on her mind. Maybe she needs to jump the hurdle of barriers or needs referrals for job websites, all are welcome here. You are a good friend to help her out and I wish you and your friend all the best !