I had no idea what to write in response to this email calling for testers for mobile games. I have a great fear of interacting with people I don’t know, particularly when something such as a job is hanging on the line. What if I sounded inept, like I didn’t know what I was talking about? I could have easily pretended I didn’t get the email, tossed it in the trash, but I knew, on some level, that this was my opportunity. So, I got the courage, and with a little assistance from my mentor, responded to the email. Apparently I did something right; within a week and a half, I was hired. I had my first job in the game development industry. Sure I was starting at the bottom, but at least I could say I was part of the industry! What an excellent way to ring in the New Year!

I have now been with India-based Octane Technologies for a month. I can not thank them enough for being willing to take a chance on someone who had no experience (though a great deal of enthusiasm). Already in the last month I have learned more than I could have imagined. I am working closely with developers, the QA department and even the CEO of the company (who was responsible for hiring me). The people have been gracious, kind and welcoming. They understand that I came into the job knowing virtually nothing and that I am learning as I go. I am experiencing my very first “crunch time” as we have some fast approaching deadlines, and it is absolutely exhilarating! This job has given me hope. Perhaps I can make it in the industry! It has been quite a journey thus far. At times it was difficult, but I am glad it followed the path it did. I have learned so much about myself, and about the industry. I look forward to the path that lies ahead. The one thing I want you, the reader, to take away from this story, is that if you really want to become part of the game development industry, you can! While certainly helpful, you don’t absolutely need a computer science degree to design games (unless you are going to be a programmer)! You don’t even need to be a “gamer” (though, again, it can help). What you do need is the desire to create, an imagination, dedication, and perhaps, a good mentor. Someone who has been there, who knows what it is like to try and break into the industry, can be a great asset as you try and make your way to the top. If you ask nicely, I just might loan mine out.

Visit Katelyn's blog at gamergal.net.

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