I chose PAVI because I wanted to expand my art education. I'd attended art school for two years, then decided to focus on fashion design for a year, then moved to New York for three years to pursue this but realized fashion wasn't a good fit for me career-wise. So I moved back home to Vancouver and decided the next step would be digital and game art. Vancouver being an ideal place for someone wanting to get into the game industry and a relatively well-paying industry to be a part of. The school was affordable and it seemed that the small class sizes would be helpful.

I had no education in 3D animation nor did I have any education in Game design. I was ready and willing for a challenge and it was difficult at times but the teachers were always available inside and outside of class hours to help anyone if need be. My education in art was an asset but learning new software is always difficult.

The program was broken down into all of the stages required in making a video game. Animation, 3D modeling, Art, Texturing, Lighting, Code, Level Design, Audio. There may be a few courses that certain students may not think they need to learn but it is integral for anyone entering the gaming industry to know all of these roles and what's required to make a game and how they interconnect. The curriculum is quite dense but the assignments and tests are not overwhelming and can sometimes be combined.

Upon finishing the program I felt excited to enter the industry and quite prepared to learn more in an internship or a job. I had started the program expecting to learn all of the technical aspects that are required to make a video game and was satisfied when I finished these classes.

The best parts of the program were the short time in which one could acquire a diploma, and the short class days, I could still attend work while going to school and not feel too overwhelmed. The small classes were definitely beneficial in getting personal help from the teachers and help from fellow classmates.

I believe with all of the classes in the program it becomes clear to the students which path they would like to take in terms of a career. Learning the software and specific roles demonstrate to students what they enjoy or do not enjoy.

"The program gives the students a definite idea of what the different facets of the gaming industry are and what might be best suited to each individual professionally."

The cost of the program is one of the most affordable. The teachers for the most part are well equipped to teach the classes, and if they can't answer your question they will spend time finding an answer for you. Class sizes are small which is beneficial to students for one-on-one help from the teachers. Equipment is always accessible by students by sign-out process.

I would recommend this program to anyone interested in the gaming industry if they have little to no experience with the software. If they have a pretty good knowledge of software it could be a little basic for them in certain classes. I think it is a good introduction to all of what's required in making video games and will give students the tools necessary for entry into the gaming industry.

Upon graduating I have been working on my portfolio and meeting people in the industry and have not landed a job yet but based on a recent interview it looks like a good one may be on the horizon.

I am happy with the decision I have made in attending PAVI because I feel I have the necessary education to enter my specific field. The program gives the students a definite idea of what the different facets of the gaming industry are and what might be best suited to each individual professionally. I now have a more clear understanding of the roles each employee plays in a company.