Sam Gibbs: ‘Studying here meant that I could stay at home without any stress’

Tell us about your course. What are you particularly enjoying about it?

I love learning new things. Here we’re allowed to experiment and develop our own projects. It means I can express my interests creatively and innovate. I’m also really interested in the social aspect of gaming and how for some, especially those with additional needs, it can provide comfort. I’ve been looking into how gaming can help to highlight challenges that some people face and have a positive impact on their learning.

What made you decide on this particular course?

I love how the modules give you such a holistic view. The course prepares you for so much more than just games design – it allows you to be versatile.

What made you decide on University Studies?

It meant that I could stay at home without any stress and focus fully on my studies.

What’s been the best thing about your US experience?

Learning that it is not just about making a game; it’s about being original. It’s about understanding the audience, the psychology behind it, being able to take into account things like different cultures, languages and religions – rather than just simply ‘making things run’.

What are you most proud of on your US journey so far?

How much I’ve learnt! It’s also made me more open-minded and have a more investigative attitude.

What’s the one biggest thing you’ve learned at US so far... about yourself? And about your subject?

If there’s something I want to do, I now look at every possible angle in order to make it happen. I’ll at least give it my best shot, learn from my mistakes and try again. I’ve also become more sensitive towards others challenges and that’s been invaluable, I’m always striving to make everyone feel included.

What do you plan to do after graduating?

I’d love to go into teaching or lecturing.

How will US help you achieve those goals?

They’ve taught me here that if you want to make it, you can make it – and they’ll support you in any way they can. The teachers go above and beyond to help us students.

If you could sum up the US experience in three words, what would they be?

Challenging. Inspiring. Growth.

If a friend was thinking of studying at US, how would you persuade them to enrol?

Be ready for the challenge. Be open minded and prepared to think outside the box. Think big and be rewarded by the feeling of ‘I created that – that’s mine!’. Release your originality and you could be the one who others compare themselves to!