Computer and Video Game Designers

One of the best ways to learn about game design is to try to develop copies of easy games, such as Pong and Pac-Man, or make your own games using software such as Scratch (http://scratch.mit.edu) or GameMaker (https://gamemaker.io).

For high school students interested in finding out more about how video games and animations are produced, look for schools or organizations that offer summer workshops. There are courses offered throughout the summer, providing hands-on experience and advice on courses to take in high school to prepare yourself for postsecondary training. One important opportunity is to check out the National Student Leadership Conference's Game Design program (https://www.nslcleaders.org/youth-leadership-programs/game-design), which is held each summer in several locations.

Writing your own stories, puzzles, and games helps develop storytelling and problem-solving skills. Magazines such as Computer Graphics World (http://www.cgw.com) have articles about digital video and high-end imaging and other technical and design information.