CONESTOGA COLLEGE
Game Jam draws students for practical learning and networking

The CVRI builds digital learning simulations, allowing learners to access immersive content remotely and on-demand, bridging the gap between campus resources and individual learning. Through Game Jam, students can apply practical learning and simulate real-world scenarios by working in teams, often with students they have not connected with before.

Held twice annually, this term's event drew more than 70 students for networking, portfolio-building and professional development.

"Working under pressure was nice. And working under pressure with new people definitely puts you in an environment of getting things done efficiently and working with a team. It gives you an experience that you couldn't get from course work," said Leila Doucette, a first-year Game Design student. 

Chris Thompson, a second-year student in the program also saw value in the hackathon.

"I thought it was a really fun experience. It forced me to practice a lot and build up my confidence more than I have before. I think that I'm just more confident overall in creating games. I certainly feel a lot better about knowing my abilities and knowing how fast I can get things done. So I think it will be more of a motivator for me in the future."

In addition to in-person sessions at the college's Waterloo campus, teams also worked off-site and virtually throughout the week, with CVRI team members available for support. Sean Yo, manager, Digital Simulation Development, was on-hand for consulting and played a leading role in organizing the week.

"A game jam or any kind of hackathon is important because it provides an opportunity for significant collaboration. This kind of work is hard to do on your own. But we have a lecture hall full of people who did it because of our support and because we created the space for it," said Yo.

The event has also spawned entrepreneurial pursuits. Kanishka Dutta, a second-year Computer Programming student, was inspired to start his own gaming studio with a friend from his experiences participating in previous Game Jam weeks.  

"I got the idea to use my experience to help launch a studio, which a friend and I started in November. In one month, we added 15 members who share their expertise in creating games. And now, our studio has grown to over 30 members, with another four people joining right now," Dutta said.

The week culminated with a demo session, where each team gathered to present their prototypes. 

Conestoga's School of Applied Computer Science & Information Technology offers a 21st-century education that prepares graduates for exciting careers in the innovative world of information and communications technology.

Conestoga's School of Creative Industries offers dynamic programs spanning all aspects of media, communication and design. Students can pursue careers in fields that include design, broadcasting, public relations, social media and marketing.