Student Experience: Justin Rivera

“Dallas College was overall a great experience for me because it eased me into the gaming industry. Coming from a culinary background of 10 years prior to the shift really was really intimidating, but with the help of many instructors and peers I was able to overcome and adapt.

“(The program) introduced to me the very basics of what I could imagine I would do in the real world. I knew it was up to me to push myself outside of school hours to achieve my goals of being a game developer. I remember the late classes and the conversations I would have with industry veterans about what to expect and they were always honest with me and told me that if I wanted it, I would have to work my tail off.

“(My message to prospective and current students) is you need to push yourself! In an industry that is extremely competitive and popular you need to stand out. Work on your portfolio and program/develop every day. When I was going to school, I was putting in four to six hours after school seven days a week to get where I needed to be. It can be done, trust me, and remember your school isn't your only tool for success.”

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