Hey everyone, I'm a junior and I'm really passionate about video games. Are there any reputable video game summer programs for high school students that I could look into? I want to get some experience in the industry before applying to college. Thanks!
Hey there! It's great that you're passionate about video games and want to gain experience in the industry before college. There are definitely summer programs for high school students that focus on various aspects of video game development, such as programming, design, and art.
One option you might want to consider is the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's MIT Game Lab, which offers a summer program called "Game Design Workshop." This program is designed for high school students interested in learning about game design principles, tools, and techniques. You'll work in teams to design and prototype your own games, gaining valuable hands-on experience.
Another program to check out is the University of Southern California's (USC) Summer Programs for High School Students. USC has a well-regarded game design program, and they offer a variety of game-related courses during their summer session, such as "Game Design & Interactive Storytelling" and "3D Art for Games & Interactive Media."
Additionally, you might want to look into programs at schools with strong video game programs like DigiPen Institute of Technology, Rochester Institute of Technology, or Carnegie Mellon University. These schools sometimes offer summer camps or workshops specifically for high school students.
Keep in mind that program availability might change from year to year, so it's a good idea to explore their websites and reach out to the program coordinators for the most up-to-date information.
Lastly, consider participating in online game jams, which are events where participants work in teams or individually to create a game over a short period of time. There are various game jams throughout the year, some even specifically designed for high school students. Participating in a game jam can help you start building a portfolio of work, connect with others who share your passion for gaming, and give you a taste of what it's like to work in the video game industry.
Best of luck with your search, and I hope you have an awesome experience this summer!
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