Dallas College

Student Experience: Eli Gershtein

Eli Crater Gershtein is a technical artist who specializes in creating real-time visual effects for the video game industry. With more than four years of experience, he has contributed to AAA Games as a Service (GaaS) titles, thriving in dynamic, cross-functional team environments alongside artists, designers and engineers. His work focuses on developing and optimizing VFX assets and pipelines using tools like Unreal Engine and Houdini, with a strong foundation in procedural workflows, shader development and scripting.

Eli brings a unique perspective to his role, stemming from a 12-year background in archaeology. This previous career provided a deep, practical foundation in technical analysis, research, and photogrammetry, skills he now applies to digital creation.

This blend of scientific precision and artistic vision allows him to be an innovative and versatile problem-solver. He is passionate about leveraging his diverse experience to build immersive, high-quality game worlds and enhance the player experience through compelling visual effects.

Eli on what ignited his passion for game design: "I took a VFX that completely sparked my curiosity and I went full throttle into technical art and VFX."

Watch Eli's full interview with Dallas College Game Design.


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Ibrahim Taleb

Ibrahim Taleb

Game Design student Richland
“Every professor in this program can really talk about the software we’re learning. I wouldn’t be so interested in my classes if they weren’t so good”
Interactive Simulation and Game Technology (Game Design)
Gabriel Holzapfel

Gabriel Holzapfel

Eagle Top Gaming
“With a professional and direct attitude, I can lead and direct teams in software and game design or serve as a self-reliant member of the production team. Trained in Game design and production art, I can serve and accomplish a variety of tasks as production progresses and different skills are needed.”
Interactive Simulation and Game Technology (Game Design)
Ethan Brackin

Ethan Brackin

3D Studio Owner
“I chose this program for the strength of the program of classes. The class structure was much more focused on specific skill sets, lending more experience to a particular field of choice, which for me was 3D modeling and 3D sculpture. I was able to strengthen my drawing skills, which enabled me to realize my concepts better.”
Interactive Simulation and Game Technology (Game Design)
Eskinder Girma

Eskinder Girma

Concept Artist
“Eskinder’s been enthusiastic about visual art and entertainment design all his life, which has led to him working as a freelance artist on both traditional and digital mediums. Now he is studying in the Interactive and Game Simulation Program.”
Interactive Simulation and Game Technology (Game Design)
A headshot of Eli Gershtein
Eli Gershtein
Visual Effects Artist
Interactive Simulation and Game Technology (Game Design)
School of Engineering, Technology, Mathematics and Sciences
Updated September 4, 2026