Meet Vaibhav

Support available at Newcastle University

I haven’t received financial assistance, but I’ve made good use of the pastoral support available at Newcastle. One of the most helpful resources has been the Student Wellbeing drop-in sessions. They offer a friendly and approachable environment to talk to trained staff about personal or academic concerns. Knowing that this support is there has helped me feel less isolated, especially during stressful times like assignment deadlines. Simply being aware of the mental health services, counselling, and wellbeing advisers has given me a sense of security and balance throughout my studies. 

My favourite thing about my course

Working with industry-standard tools like Unreal Engine and C++ gives me insight into what it’s really like to develop professional games. I’ve enjoyed building playable projects, taking part in game jams, and collaborating on complex systems. These experiences not only sharpen my technical abilities but also improve my communication and problem-solving skills. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing your ideas come to life through code. 

If you’re considering this course, come prepared with a strong foundation in programming, especially in C++, as it’s technically demanding from the beginning. Effective time management is crucial, as you’ll often be juggling multiple projects. Take every opportunity to build games, whether through coursework, game jams, or personal projects. These experiences are key to developing your portfolio. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, the community here is supportive and collaborative. Finally, keep exploring different aspects of game development to find your true passion. 

Everything I need for success

Throughout the course, I’ve gained a wide range of employability skills beyond technical knowledge.

Managing multiple deadlines has improved my organisational skills, and I’ve become more adaptable to new tools and technologies, an essential trait in the ever-evolving game industry. Altogether, this course has helped me become a confident and versatile developer ready for a professional environment.

Outside of my studies

I’ve taken part in rewarding extracurricular activities. One highlight was participating in a game jam, which challenged me to prototype ideas quickly and work collaboratively under pressure. It pushed my creativity and strengthened my teamwork. I also attended a game convention, where I connected with developers, saw diverse projects, and gained valuable industry insights. These experiences built my confidence and expanded my professional network. 

A final word

One thing I’d like to add is how much this course fosters a strong sense of community and continuous learning. It’s not just about assignments, there’s informal support from peers and staff that makes a big difference during tough times. The course also encourages critical thinking about the games industry itself, not just how to make games, but how to innovate and improve the player experience. That mindset has shaped how I approach game development and my future goals.

Newcastle as a city, combined with the university environment, creates a motivating space for personal and professional growth.