I have a passion for game development, I’m eager to pursue a career in the games industry and see a university game art course as a natural next step. My interest in game development began when I became interested in how my favourite games were made, the one that really stood out to me was The Last of Us and the creation of its detailed environment. Looking at how these games were made, I discovered I had an intense interest in the process of creating games, I found the most immersive part of the games for me was their environments because of the story and detail the developers conveyed. As a result of this, I began learning and experimenting with asset creation, texture art and environment design.

I am currently studying a two year Extended Diploma Games Design course at college where I am predicted a Distinction grade. I have learnt and gained understanding of the following skills and techniques; 3D asset creation, Programming in C++ via Unreal Engine Visual Blueprinting, Autodesk Maya, Adobe Photoshop and Substance Painter. 

In 2023, I undertook a week of work experience at the Bristol games studio, Mobile Pie. As part of the team, I was introduced to all areas of the studio, I got to shadow the lead 3D artist and to test games in early development. Some of my feedback was taken on board and implemented into the final games by the development team. 

I have attended the EGX gaming event in London for the last two years; the highlight every year is having the opportunity to meet independent game developers and play their games. I found it very interesting to listen to the developer's experience of producing and publishing their games, which gave me a real insight into the process. Most of the developers said that they began creating their games at university, which spawned a curiosity for me to pursue a university education in game development. 

I have taken part in a Games Jam hosted by my college, in which we had to create a game over the course of three days. My role was as environment artist working in a multidisciplinary team with my peers as well as students from the year above. My teamwork, problem solving, and communication skills all definitely improved as a result of taking part in the Jam. For example, I had to effectively and clearly convey my ideas to the level designer so that we could incorporate my assets into the level layout. 

I chose to apply for a game art course because, after having gained skills in different areas of game development, I found that I was most passionate about 3D modelling and creating concept art. I am excited by the opportunity of further pushing the boundaries of software like Maya and Substance Painter to create detailed game environments. 

My hobbies include Airsoft, a team-based shooting game, I participate with a group of friends within an urban themed warehouse environment. During combat sessions, gameplay involves working as a tight-knit team to complete tactical game objectives, eliminating enemy players as we go. Since starting this hobby, I feel like my ability to clearly communicate while under pressure has improved, as have my teamwork skills. I have utilised these skills in my studies to effectively communicate ideas to peers and within my research.

In conclusion, I am enthusiastic to continue to pursue a course in game development and further improve my skills using industry software. I see myself benefiting greatly from being immersed in a creative environment with cutting-edge facilities, experienced staff and course content that I feel passionate about. I am prepared and committed to putting in the effort to improve my skillset and to create further high-quality work.