1 answer
Lily
Student
Redondo Beach, California
1
Question
Updated
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Is going to college to learn video game production/VFX worth it in the current state of both industries?
It's one of my dreams to enter either the VFX or video game production industry, but with the way that VFX veterans are speaking of how awful the state of the industry is, I'm starting to have second doubts. Should I pursue other avenues rather than going into debt to learn the skills necessary?
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1 answer
Fasi Uddin Mir
17
Answers
Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Updated
Fasi Uddin’s Answer
Hi Lily,
Thanks for being honest with your question. It's brave to rethink a dream while you're still working on it.
Your concerns about VFX and game production are valid. These fields often have tight deadlines and job uncertainty. Your hesitation shows you're wisely considering your future.
People still find success in these industries. The important part is how you prepare, not just what you choose.
If you're thinking about college for game production or VFX, make sure it offers hands-on projects and builds a strong portfolio. A degree alone isn't enough; you need to show your skills.
Here's how to decide:
- Programs with practical projects, teamwork, and industry exposure are valuable.
- If it's mostly theory and expensive, it might not be worth it.
Since you mentioned debt, planning is crucial. You don't have to go all in right away.
Consider these options:
- Look for affordable colleges or those with good financial aid.
- Choose related majors like computer science or animation while learning game/VFX skills on the side.
- Use free or low-cost resources to learn before spending a lot.
- Start small projects or build a portfolio early to see if you enjoy the work.
You can test this path now:
- Create a small game, animation, or visual effect.
- Follow beginner tutorials and complete small projects.
- See if you enjoy the process, not just the career idea.
This experience can help you decide before making big financial commitments.
Remember, choosing a safer or broader path doesn't mean giving up your dream. Many people enter games or VFX from different fields later on.
You're not behind, and you're not stuck on one path.
A balanced approach—building skills while being mindful of costs—can give you both opportunities and security.
Your thoughtful question shows you're making a wise decision.
Try a free beginner project in game development or VFX (for example, a simple Unity project or a short Blender animation) to see if you enjoy the actual process.
Compare 2–3 colleges based on cost, curriculum, and student portfolios—not just reputation—to understand the return on investment.
Explore free or low-cost learning resources (YouTube tutorials, online courses) to start building basic skills before committing financially.
Talk to current students or recent graduates from programs you’re considering to understand their real experiences and job outcomes.
Build a small portfolio (even 2–3 simple projects) over the next few months to test your interest and strengthen future applications.
Thanks for being honest with your question. It's brave to rethink a dream while you're still working on it.
Your concerns about VFX and game production are valid. These fields often have tight deadlines and job uncertainty. Your hesitation shows you're wisely considering your future.
People still find success in these industries. The important part is how you prepare, not just what you choose.
If you're thinking about college for game production or VFX, make sure it offers hands-on projects and builds a strong portfolio. A degree alone isn't enough; you need to show your skills.
Here's how to decide:
- Programs with practical projects, teamwork, and industry exposure are valuable.
- If it's mostly theory and expensive, it might not be worth it.
Since you mentioned debt, planning is crucial. You don't have to go all in right away.
Consider these options:
- Look for affordable colleges or those with good financial aid.
- Choose related majors like computer science or animation while learning game/VFX skills on the side.
- Use free or low-cost resources to learn before spending a lot.
- Start small projects or build a portfolio early to see if you enjoy the work.
You can test this path now:
- Create a small game, animation, or visual effect.
- Follow beginner tutorials and complete small projects.
- See if you enjoy the process, not just the career idea.
This experience can help you decide before making big financial commitments.
Remember, choosing a safer or broader path doesn't mean giving up your dream. Many people enter games or VFX from different fields later on.
You're not behind, and you're not stuck on one path.
A balanced approach—building skills while being mindful of costs—can give you both opportunities and security.
Your thoughtful question shows you're making a wise decision.
Fasi Uddin recommends the following next steps: