Game Developer with extensive English Literature background

Nicholas G.

I graduated from University of Florida with a BA in English Literature and University of Central Florida (Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy) with an MS in Interactive Entertainment (Production). While enrolled in the latter, I picked up an understanding of programming that I have been able to use for 10 years in the game industry, creating educational games in Unreal Engine 4. During that time, I briefly taught a small course at UCF FIEA on how to use Unreal Engine 4/5's Blueprints scripting system in the summer of 2018.

I believe effective learning begins with understanding the bigger picture. Whether working with programming concepts or English composition, I start by explaining the underlying structure and context so students can see how individual skills fit into the larger system. Drawing from my experience mentoring developers and training UX designers in the game industry, I've found that students make better decisions when they understand not just "how" to do something, but "why" certain approaches work better than others. I prioritize creating a collaborative learning environment where student questions and feedback guide our sessions—after all, my teaching style needs to adapt to how each student learns best. Rather than rigid lesson plans, I prefer working through real problems together, adjusting my approach based on what the student brings to each session. When students get stuck, I use a mix of leading questions and problem breakdown techniques, always aiming to help them develop their own problem-solving thinking rather than just providing quick answers. My goal is to equip students with both practical skills and the conceptual framework to continue learning independently and make informed decisions in their work.