Five lessons for a student developer
Julius Fondem, project coordinator at RedLynx Studio, graduated from one of the Finnish universities to become a game producer. And during this time, in addition to his main specialty, he received several important lessons. They, according to him, were useful in later life.
1. Making mistakes is very important
“This is, in fact, the best lesson that can be learned while studying at university – or even in life as a whole,” Fondem noted. He explained his idea: mistakes allow us to understand what went wrong and draw appropriate conclusions. So if the plan didn’t work out, then it’s not so bad, despite the fact that many people believe the opposite.
“If you have failed, then you are learning, and learning is always useful,” he commented.
2. It is best to learn by practice
How to make games can be learned only in practice. Specialized education should be regarded as a starting point, Fondem said. At the same time, he stipulated that some teachers are excellent professionals and provide students with every possible support. But at the same time, finding a competent teacher in the field of the gaming industry is not an easy task. At least, this is the case in Finland.
In other words, if you want to make a good game, go and develop it. This is the only way to learn something, Fondem believes.
3. Nothing is impossible
It is possible to get to a major gaming event. Even if you are a student who has no money.
Fondem told about his own experience. When he was a student, he organized a trip to the Nordic Game conference for himself and his classmates. To do this, he calculated how much money would be needed – including travel expenses, accommodation and entrance fees. Then I contacted various digs and asked for help with finances. In gratitude for the help, he promised that students would wear the logo of sponsors on T-shirts.
Some companies agreed and provided the necessary money. This allowed them to get to the conference.
Another way to get to the event is to offer your services as a volunteer. Organizers often need help, said Fondem.
4. It is necessary to know the limits of your capabilities
During his studies, Fondem, according to him, realized that his capabilities have a limit. He worked 9-12 hours every day. And although it seemed to him then that it was fun, it all ended with the fact that by the last course he just “burned out”.
“It was unpleasant, but at the same time, if I hadn’t done it, I wouldn’t have known the limits of my powers,” Fondem shared. He added that as a result, he learned to take care of himself and devote time not only to work.
5. You can’t do without support
“When something goes wrong, you really need support,” Fondem said. He explained that it is necessary to share negative emotions with friends, and not keep them to yourself. Good friends care about you, and they will always be happy to help you, he concluded.
A source: http://www.develop-online.net
Other materials:
