8 answers
Emma
Student
Saint Petersburg, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What are some career choices for someone who is interested in computer science, design, architecture, and game development?
I'm worried I have too many interests and I don't know how to choose my major because I also want to make a lot of money and own my own business but I'm not sure.
#Spring23
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8 answers
Michael Okpala
Architecture
7
Answers
Enugu, Nigeria
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Having diverse interests can be both exciting and challenging when it comes to choosing a career path. However, there are several fields that combine computer science, design, architecture, and game development, offering you a range of potential career choices. Here are a few options to consider:
1. User Experience (UX) Designer: UX designers focus on creating intuitive and engaging user experiences for digital products and services. This role involves a blend of design principles, computer science knowledge, and an understanding of user psychology. You can work on designing user interfaces for software applications, websites, or even game interfaces.
2. Virtual Reality (VR) Developer: With a background in computer science and game development, you could explore a career in VR development. This field involves creating immersive virtual experiences and environments. Architects often use VR technology to showcase designs to clients, making this a potential avenue to combine your interests.
3. Computational Design Specialist: This role involves utilizing computational tools and algorithms to generate complex designs. It combines aspects of computer science, architecture, and design. As a computational design specialist, you can work on creating generative design systems, parametric modeling, or algorithmic architecture.
4. Game Developer: If you're interested in game development, you can pursue a career as a game developer or programmer. With your design and architecture interests, you might find opportunities in creating virtual worlds or architectural simulations within games. This field requires strong programming skills and creativity.
5. Entrepreneurship and Startups: If you aspire to own your own business, consider combining your interests by starting a tech-oriented company. You could explore opportunities in developing architectural software, game development studios, or design-focused tech startups. This path requires a combination of business acumen, technical skills, and creativity.
When it comes to making a lot of money, it's important to note that financial success can vary depending on various factors such as demand, experience, and market conditions. Consider researching the earning potential and growth prospects in the specific careers you're interested in.
Note.. it's crucial to follow your passions and pursue a career that aligns with your interests and strengths. If you're passionate about what you do, it increases your chances of finding fulfillment and success in your chosen field.
1. User Experience (UX) Designer: UX designers focus on creating intuitive and engaging user experiences for digital products and services. This role involves a blend of design principles, computer science knowledge, and an understanding of user psychology. You can work on designing user interfaces for software applications, websites, or even game interfaces.
2. Virtual Reality (VR) Developer: With a background in computer science and game development, you could explore a career in VR development. This field involves creating immersive virtual experiences and environments. Architects often use VR technology to showcase designs to clients, making this a potential avenue to combine your interests.
3. Computational Design Specialist: This role involves utilizing computational tools and algorithms to generate complex designs. It combines aspects of computer science, architecture, and design. As a computational design specialist, you can work on creating generative design systems, parametric modeling, or algorithmic architecture.
4. Game Developer: If you're interested in game development, you can pursue a career as a game developer or programmer. With your design and architecture interests, you might find opportunities in creating virtual worlds or architectural simulations within games. This field requires strong programming skills and creativity.
5. Entrepreneurship and Startups: If you aspire to own your own business, consider combining your interests by starting a tech-oriented company. You could explore opportunities in developing architectural software, game development studios, or design-focused tech startups. This path requires a combination of business acumen, technical skills, and creativity.
When it comes to making a lot of money, it's important to note that financial success can vary depending on various factors such as demand, experience, and market conditions. Consider researching the earning potential and growth prospects in the specific careers you're interested in.
Note.. it's crucial to follow your passions and pursue a career that aligns with your interests and strengths. If you're passionate about what you do, it increases your chances of finding fulfillment and success in your chosen field.
Jamie Clark
Visual Effects Artist
32
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
There is a lot to unpack in your question. Mainly the last part of owning your own business and making a lot of money.
The skill set of someone who works as a video game developer (things I know about) isn't the same skill set as someone who runs their own company.
If I were you I would get in contact with folks who do run their own software, architectural, game development company and see if they have any pointers.
You may get someone here that can help you, but if not that's the route I would go... ask someone who has done it.
As for your major... the first couple years of college (if it's "traditional" college) you'll have plenty of time to decide on a major. You'll be taking the required courses like English, Math, History, etc.
You don't really have to decide until you're a Junior, and even then you can switch fairly easily.
I started out as an English Lit major, then was a Theater major, then wound up with a Journalism degree.
The reason? I wasn't sure what I wanted to do either, and I tried stuff out and found things I liked and didn't like.
But having written that... I work in video games as an FX artist, and haven't been a journalist for over two decades.
So don't worry to much about the major thing... but I would reach out to people who have done what you want to do and pick their brains. Check out linkedin and search for some owners.
Good luck!
The skill set of someone who works as a video game developer (things I know about) isn't the same skill set as someone who runs their own company.
If I were you I would get in contact with folks who do run their own software, architectural, game development company and see if they have any pointers.
You may get someone here that can help you, but if not that's the route I would go... ask someone who has done it.
As for your major... the first couple years of college (if it's "traditional" college) you'll have plenty of time to decide on a major. You'll be taking the required courses like English, Math, History, etc.
You don't really have to decide until you're a Junior, and even then you can switch fairly easily.
I started out as an English Lit major, then was a Theater major, then wound up with a Journalism degree.
The reason? I wasn't sure what I wanted to do either, and I tried stuff out and found things I liked and didn't like.
But having written that... I work in video games as an FX artist, and haven't been a journalist for over two decades.
So don't worry to much about the major thing... but I would reach out to people who have done what you want to do and pick their brains. Check out linkedin and search for some owners.
Good luck!
Carl Manson Jr., PMP
5G Program Manager - Verizon
88
Answers
Stone Mountain, Georgia
Updated
Carl’s Answer
Hello Emma! You might want to think about pursuing a career as a system architect. These talented people set objectives for their systems and play a crucial role in shaping the future. In my experience, system architects collaborate closely with product managers, ensuring that the ideas for new products match the system's abilities. This fantastic opportunity allows you to work hand-in-hand with developers, business experts, project managers, and product managers, turning an organization's dream into reality.
Read this article on what a system architect does: https://www.bmc.com/blogs/system-architect/
Carl recommends the following next steps:
Rihem Ben Khaled
software engineering student
25
Answers
Sousse, Tunisia
Updated
Rihem’s Answer
Hello Emma,
Combining computer science, design, architecture, and game development interests opens doors to careers such as:
Video Game Developer: Merge computer science and game development skills to create interactive gaming experiences.
User Experience (UX) Designer: Blend design and architecture for crafting intuitive, user-friendly digital interfaces and applications.
Digital Architect: Combine architectural principles with technology to design and build innovative digital structures or virtual worlds.
Virtual Reality (VR) Developer: Specialize in creating immersive VR experiences by harnessing design, architecture, and computer science.
3D Modeler/Animator: Use artistic skills to design 3D models and animations for games, simulations, and architectural visualizations.
Augmented Reality (AR) Developer: Integrate computer science and design to develop AR applications that overlay digital elements on the real world.
Simulation Engineer: Leverage architecture, computer science, and design for developing realistic simulations, applicable in fields from architecture to healthcare.
Combining computer science, design, architecture, and game development interests opens doors to careers such as:
Video Game Developer: Merge computer science and game development skills to create interactive gaming experiences.
User Experience (UX) Designer: Blend design and architecture for crafting intuitive, user-friendly digital interfaces and applications.
Digital Architect: Combine architectural principles with technology to design and build innovative digital structures or virtual worlds.
Virtual Reality (VR) Developer: Specialize in creating immersive VR experiences by harnessing design, architecture, and computer science.
3D Modeler/Animator: Use artistic skills to design 3D models and animations for games, simulations, and architectural visualizations.
Augmented Reality (AR) Developer: Integrate computer science and design to develop AR applications that overlay digital elements on the real world.
Simulation Engineer: Leverage architecture, computer science, and design for developing realistic simulations, applicable in fields from architecture to healthcare.
Inamul Haque
4
Answers
Budaun, Uttar Pradesh, India
Updated
Inamul’s Answer
If you have an interest in computer science, design, architecture, and game development, there are several career choices that could be a good fit for you. Here are a few options to consider:
Game Developer: This career path involves designing, programming, and developing video games. You would work on creating game mechanics, implementing graphics and audio, and writing the code that brings the game to life.
Game Designer: As a game designer, you would be responsible for creating the overall concept, gameplay mechanics, and level design of video games. You would work closely with a development team to ensure that the game is engaging and enjoyable for players.
Game Artist: If you have a strong artistic inclination, you could pursue a career as a game artist. This involves creating visual elements for games, including characters, environments, and user interfaces. You would use your design skills to bring the game world to life.
UX/UI Designer: User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) designers focus on creating intuitive and visually appealing interfaces for software applications, websites, and games. They ensure that the user interactions are smooth, efficient, and enjoyable.
Virtual Reality (VR) Developer: With the growing popularity of virtual reality, this field offers opportunities to create immersive experiences. As a VR developer, you would work on designing and developing virtual reality applications and games.
Software Engineer: This broader career option allows you to work on various software development projects, including those in the gaming industry. You could specialize in areas such as graphics programming, game physics, artificial intelligence, or backend systems development.
Architectural Visualization Specialist: This role involves using computer graphics and design software to create visual representations of architectural designs. You would work with architects and designers to develop 3D models and renderings of buildings and spaces.
Interaction Designer: Interaction designers focus on creating engaging and interactive experiences for users. They work on designing how users interact with digital products, including games, by considering user behaviors and preferences.
Technical Artist: Technical artists bridge the gap between art and technology. They work on optimizing and integrating art assets into game engines, ensuring that they look and perform as intended.
Game Developer: This career path involves designing, programming, and developing video games. You would work on creating game mechanics, implementing graphics and audio, and writing the code that brings the game to life.
Game Designer: As a game designer, you would be responsible for creating the overall concept, gameplay mechanics, and level design of video games. You would work closely with a development team to ensure that the game is engaging and enjoyable for players.
Game Artist: If you have a strong artistic inclination, you could pursue a career as a game artist. This involves creating visual elements for games, including characters, environments, and user interfaces. You would use your design skills to bring the game world to life.
UX/UI Designer: User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) designers focus on creating intuitive and visually appealing interfaces for software applications, websites, and games. They ensure that the user interactions are smooth, efficient, and enjoyable.
Virtual Reality (VR) Developer: With the growing popularity of virtual reality, this field offers opportunities to create immersive experiences. As a VR developer, you would work on designing and developing virtual reality applications and games.
Software Engineer: This broader career option allows you to work on various software development projects, including those in the gaming industry. You could specialize in areas such as graphics programming, game physics, artificial intelligence, or backend systems development.
Architectural Visualization Specialist: This role involves using computer graphics and design software to create visual representations of architectural designs. You would work with architects and designers to develop 3D models and renderings of buildings and spaces.
Interaction Designer: Interaction designers focus on creating engaging and interactive experiences for users. They work on designing how users interact with digital products, including games, by considering user behaviors and preferences.
Technical Artist: Technical artists bridge the gap between art and technology. They work on optimizing and integrating art assets into game engines, ensuring that they look and perform as intended.
Alvaro Trak
Site Reliability Engineer
3
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Alvaro’s Answer
Here are some exciting options tailored to your interests:
1. Software Engineer: Craft innovative software applications or systems by mastering programming languages and development methodologies.
2. UI/UX Designer: Design and bring to life the appearance, ambiance, and interactivity of software applications or websites.
3. Video Game Designer: Create and shape captivating video games, incorporating engaging game mechanics, narratives, characters, and level designs.
4. CAD Architect: Utilize cutting-edge software to produce digital architectural designs and plans, blending design, technology, and architecture seamlessly.
5. Web Developer: Build and sustain websites by composing or modifying code, devising site layouts, and incorporating diverse elements.
6. Mobile App Developer: Invent, develop, and maintain mobile applications for popular platforms like Android and iOS.
7. Computer Graphics Artist: Generate stunning visual elements and designs for movies, video games, and other digital media.
8. VR/AR Developer: Create immersive applications and experiences using groundbreaking VR/AR technologies.
9. Algorithm Engineer: Devise mathematical, algorithmic, and optimization solutions to tackle a variety of technical and business challenges.
10. Data Scientist: Examine and decipher intricate datasets to extract insights and create models that aid in decision-making.
11. AI/Machine Learning Specialist: Delve into the world of artificial intelligence and machine learning to develop advanced systems and solutions.
1. Software Engineer: Craft innovative software applications or systems by mastering programming languages and development methodologies.
2. UI/UX Designer: Design and bring to life the appearance, ambiance, and interactivity of software applications or websites.
3. Video Game Designer: Create and shape captivating video games, incorporating engaging game mechanics, narratives, characters, and level designs.
4. CAD Architect: Utilize cutting-edge software to produce digital architectural designs and plans, blending design, technology, and architecture seamlessly.
5. Web Developer: Build and sustain websites by composing or modifying code, devising site layouts, and incorporating diverse elements.
6. Mobile App Developer: Invent, develop, and maintain mobile applications for popular platforms like Android and iOS.
7. Computer Graphics Artist: Generate stunning visual elements and designs for movies, video games, and other digital media.
8. VR/AR Developer: Create immersive applications and experiences using groundbreaking VR/AR technologies.
9. Algorithm Engineer: Devise mathematical, algorithmic, and optimization solutions to tackle a variety of technical and business challenges.
10. Data Scientist: Examine and decipher intricate datasets to extract insights and create models that aid in decision-making.
11. AI/Machine Learning Specialist: Delve into the world of artificial intelligence and machine learning to develop advanced systems and solutions.
Hana Imberi
HRIS Analyst
8
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Hana’s Answer
Hi! I was also like you and I had a really hard time choosing my major because it felt like such a huge decision. My advice is to not put so much pressure on it. Just having a college degree is such a huge plus and you can do so many different things with your degree no matter what your major is. I ended up majoring in business because it is pretty general and allowed me to keep my options open after college.
Inamul Haque
4
Answers
Budaun, Uttar Pradesh, India
Updated
Inamul’s Answer
If you're passionate about computer science, design, architecture, and game development, there are numerous exciting career paths that could be perfect for you. Here are a few options to think about:
Game Developer: In this role, you'll be responsible for designing, programming, and developing video games. You'll focus on crafting game mechanics, incorporating graphics and audio, and writing the code that brings the game to life.
Game Designer: As a game designer, your job will be to create the overall concept, gameplay mechanics, and level design of video games. You'll collaborate closely with a development team to ensure that the game is captivating and enjoyable for players.
Game Artist: If you possess a strong artistic flair, a career as a game artist might be right for you. This involves crafting visual elements for games, such as characters, environments, and user interfaces. You'll use your design talents to make the game world come alive.
UX/UI Designer: User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) designers concentrate on developing intuitive and visually appealing interfaces for software applications, websites, and games. They make sure that user interactions are seamless, efficient, and enjoyable.
Software Engineer: This wider career choice allows you to work on various software development projects, including those in the gaming industry. You could specialize in areas like graphics programming, game physics, artificial intelligence, or backend systems development.
Architectural Visualization Specialist: In this role, you'll use computer graphics and design software to produce visual representations of architectural designs. You'll collaborate with architects and designers to create 3D models and renderings of buildings and spaces.
Interaction Designer: Focusing on creating engaging and interactive experiences for users, interaction designers design how users engage with digital products, including games, by taking into account user behaviors and preferences.
Technical Artist: Acting as a bridge between art and technology, technical artists work on optimizing and integrating art assets into game engines, ensuring that they look and perform as intended.
Game Developer: In this role, you'll be responsible for designing, programming, and developing video games. You'll focus on crafting game mechanics, incorporating graphics and audio, and writing the code that brings the game to life.
Game Designer: As a game designer, your job will be to create the overall concept, gameplay mechanics, and level design of video games. You'll collaborate closely with a development team to ensure that the game is captivating and enjoyable for players.
Game Artist: If you possess a strong artistic flair, a career as a game artist might be right for you. This involves crafting visual elements for games, such as characters, environments, and user interfaces. You'll use your design talents to make the game world come alive.
UX/UI Designer: User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) designers concentrate on developing intuitive and visually appealing interfaces for software applications, websites, and games. They make sure that user interactions are seamless, efficient, and enjoyable.
Software Engineer: This wider career choice allows you to work on various software development projects, including those in the gaming industry. You could specialize in areas like graphics programming, game physics, artificial intelligence, or backend systems development.
Architectural Visualization Specialist: In this role, you'll use computer graphics and design software to produce visual representations of architectural designs. You'll collaborate with architects and designers to create 3D models and renderings of buildings and spaces.
Interaction Designer: Focusing on creating engaging and interactive experiences for users, interaction designers design how users engage with digital products, including games, by taking into account user behaviors and preferences.
Technical Artist: Acting as a bridge between art and technology, technical artists work on optimizing and integrating art assets into game engines, ensuring that they look and perform as intended.