Best way to get into the CG or Video Game industry?

[purbeast0]

Well I just craduated from UMD with a BS in Computer Science. I am very interested in getting into the computer graphics industry. I don't have alot of 3d graphics experience, but I am going to learn on my own how to do stuff with it. I also know that alot of other types of people, aside from CG artists, are in these companies.

I would like to get into either video game type stuff or movie type stuff, just basically doing anything to get in the door. what are ways that I can get into this area? I have sent resumes to some companies in regards to this, but I know it's hard for an entry level person to get in the door, so I am asking if anyone has any ideas or recommendations on how to do this. thanks.

 

[Mayfriday0529]

Apply to become a Video Game tester

 

[GasX]

Get involved in the mod scene and do work for a couple of projects to build a portfolio of game related work...

 

[AgentEL]

Did you take a Computer Graphics course already?

 

[purbeast0]

Originally posted by: AgentEL
Did you take a Computer Graphics course already?

I took an openGL programming course, where our final product was a little 3d fighting game with textures, lights, shadows, and reflections

 

[Mayfriday0529]

I applied to be a Game Tester back when i was in college studying computer science for Acclaim entertainment and was almost hired but i could not do there hours.

Basically they told me you get to play the games but put your input and eventually move to designing and other cool stuff.

Basically you get to learn the industry.

 

[yobarman]

So you most likely wanna be a programmer, right? If you're into games, check out igda.org which is a great resource for indy game developers. Their forum is also pretty good, and probably a better place to ask than here. Also another good site.. Anyways, yeah it's hard to break into the industry, but if you're good enough at what you do, then it'll be cake. Just make sure you wantto stick with it, because it is hard work. read this before you commit to trying to break into the game industry.

here's some more places you can apply to

Anyways, if you need some more info, just lemme know.

 

[Trygve]

Put together a portfolio and resume' and shop it around. I have a friend who just moved out to Los Angeles to do that and it took her a week or two to get settled in and signed up with a company out there.

 

[badmouse]

The standard method for getting those jobs is to network like crazy: get your relatives or your friends or someone you knew in the 2nd grade's cousin's dog's psychiatrist to recommend you.

Also work like crazy and get your skills up.

 

[DaveSimmons]

Once you're in, expect long hours, low pay, and your company to eventually go bankrupt like Ion Storm, Looking Glass, and soon Interplay.

I've thought about doing this after my current job winds down in a few years, when I'll have savings and a well-stocked retirement fund. But you're young and used to being poor, so give it a shot