“I’m considered an ‘older’ student since I’m almost 30. I was always interested in video game design, but I didn’t have a structured way to get into the industry. I earned a bachelor’s degree in management technology, but by the time I got done with my degree, the IT industry was saturated. I just worked at random jobs and then started looking around for a way to get education for the gaming industry.

“I came to Richland to boost my GPA by taking some arts and technology classes so that I can eventually get into a master’s program. The game design program dropped right in front of me.

“Taking Jeremy Roden’s classes is like getting taught by one of your friends — he’s really knowledgeable but also really laid back. Class is basically just informal hands-on, one-on-one time with the teacher. We look at games, play them and analyze them. The small classes are also a strong point at Richland.

“At this point in my education and career, I’d be interested in living and working overseas. I was born in South Africa and lived there for four years. I’d like to maybe work for Ubisoft in France. Of course, I’d have to learn French, too.”

Don Massey earned an associate degree in computer software from Eastfield College and a bachelor’s degree in management technology from Amberton University before starting the game design program at Richland College.