Students eager to get involved in the video game industry joined a virtual Fireside Chat all about getting into the industry on Oct. 12. Melissa Wafful, an early career program manager at video game and software developer and publisher, Epic Games, gave a tell-all on how to get started in the industry.
Wafful answered questions and provided useful information regarding getting involved with the gaming industry. All majors were invited to participate as Wafful took questions and gave individualized feedback and tips to interested students .
The beginning of the event was dedicated to more general information regarding the application process and questions that students would have to answer when applying
Wafful gave students a more involved look at the process of applying to entry level jobs and internships offered at Epic Games.
Once opened to questions, the online seminar began to provide more individualized tips and advice to students. Members of the chat asked questions regarding getting involved with recruiters.
“The best way to approach a recruiter is to get their name right,” Wafful lightheartedly advised.
Wafful explained that a common mistake that applicants make when reaching out to recruiters is reaching out to recruiters for information about a company that they would not have any knowledge of.
“Make sure you know what company that they work for and make sure you are tailoring your questions to the right audience,” Wafful elaborated.
Wafful told students “if you reach out and say, ‘Hey! I applied to this role. Is there anything I can do or someone else I can talk to.’ That is a great question for a recruiter.”
For those interested in making it in the gaming industry, it is important to make sure you are creating. If game development is your passion, try to see if you can make your own game.
Depending on how much work you put into it, the game could potentially be considered your own personal project and strengthen your resume.
A major point that Wafful discussed was imposter syndrome – where a person doubts their skills and accomplishments and fears they will be exposed as an “imposter.”
Wafful emphasized that imposter syndrome is a real thing that many applicants experience and encouraged them that they are their own worst critics.
When recruiting, the goal is to hire based on potential. Do not expect to go into your interview and walk out with full marks. You will stumble and that is expected and OK.