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Is it a good idea to have a double major with a minor?

#noworries #computer-science #communications #business
My dream is to work with Marvel Studios as a CGI artist or become a Graphic Designer for Rockstar Games, and I want to have my own video game company if I decide to work in video games. I was wondering, to have a solid back up plan, should I have a double major of Computer Science and Communications with a Business minor? Does this sound like a good plan?

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Dr. Dennis’s Answer

Focus on one major and do it well. Try to find an internship which will help you to gain experience and find a full-time job in the future.
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Daniel’s Answer

The business minor probably can't hurt too much, though it might benefit you more to focus most of your time on actually getting really good at what it is you want to do.


I'm also a bit confused - if you want to be a graphic designer, does that necessitate having a computer science degree? I don't think you will learn much about graphic design there.


It is possible to work in the game industry as a computer science major, of course. I will issue a word of caution: the game industry tends to be vastly overworked (think 80+ hour weeks), way underpaid (half as much would not be uncommon), and suffer much higher burnout than basically any other employment you can find as a comp sci major. Be careful. You can find a plethora of articles on this subject:


https://kotaku.com/game-industry-veteran-writes-horrifying-article-in-defe-1771434170

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/25/opinion/work-culture-video-games-crunch.html

https://www.polygon.com/features/2016/12/19/13878484/game-industry-worker-misclassification

https://www.theverge.com/2018/3/20/17130056/telltale-games-developer-layoffs-toxic-video-game-industry


There are of course exceptions - not *every* employer is awful. I hear Valve treats their people pretty well (they're across the lake from me, seem well adjusted). But you have to be really, really careful.

Thank you comment icon Thank you for your advice! Ariel
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KATIE’s Answer

I am not in the gaming space, but I will share that having any two majors and a minor could be a lot of work. Often on the job training is the best learning so don't feel like you have to over-solve with your education. College should not be a time to feel overwhelmed and overworked. Most people I know don't work in the field of their education (pending careers in medical field, etc.). I suggest majoring in the area of your interest and one that could be broadly applied. Feel free to minor in other areas - just think about what you are taking on. You have the rest of your life to work hard so part of the joy of college is learning about life too (and having time for that).
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