Brian McDonald, New Media, Expected graduation: Fall 2022
I’ve always been in a position that if I worked hard, I’d be rewarded. In high school I got used to working with a variety of equipment and programs for film and video production, I was known as the Wharton High school weatherman; every Monday I’d smile to the camera and tell the school “Keep the sunshine in your heart.”. Since coming to the university of Tampa however I’ve learned how to improve my abilities in code, modeling, and animating. Now, I can say with confidence that I’ve come out of this school all the wiser in doing what I love. Moreover, I learned of a software known as Asprite, which allows me to create pixelated images and animations
It wasn’t until I came to UT that I was able to get my hands on the right tools, I’ve become proficient in coding languages such as Javascript, Python, and HTML5. I’ve also learned how to use 3D modeling programs like Maya and Cinema 4D. I’ve created a variety of character models and environments with these tools the university provided that showcase just some of what I’ve learned. Whether that be the design of a character, an environment, and so forth in full 3D…Or that pixelated 2D we all identify with. I know how to grab someone’s attention effectively to give an explanation without words. It can sometimes be a challenge on the programing side of things, but the result is worth the trouble, I’m willing and ready to find the solution.
After graduation, I plan to use my degree to make strides in the video game industry. To help smooth out the rough edges of my knowledge by finding smaller studios known for making ports and remasters of older titles that people flock to and help them get a modern port with enhanced features. My skills improve as the project comes along, and people will know I was there to help make it happen. From there, branch out and make something wholly unique. Maybe I put together a turned based RPG with the next Final Fantasy, maybe I made a 2D fighting game and make the next Street fighter 2. I plan to make something entirely my own with a small team of likeminded developers on the indie scene.