Starting College marked an exciting turning point for Destiny, a Level 3 Games Design student. She arrived eager to explore her interests, develop new skills, and meet new people. Since joining the course, she has grown in confidence, discovered her strengths, and developed both personally and creatively.
Destiny quickly settled into College life and began focusing on enhancing her creative skills. She said: “I recently started College and am loving it. I’ve done so much work already, learning how to use Adobe Illustrator and other apps. I wanted to explore a new area, and I’ve heard lots of good things about the College”.
Discovering a passion for character art
Throughout the course, Destiny has worked on a range of projects that build her creative and technical skills. These projects allow her to explore different areas of game design and discover where her strengths lie.
She explained: “We’ve got a project coming up based on remakes and demakes, which helps us learn about different art processes. All these projects help us figure out what we want to specialise in. I want to specialise in concept art.”
Although Destiny always knew she wanted to pursue something creative, College helped her refine her interests and focus on character art.
She said: “I knew I wanted to do something art-based, but I didn’t realise until I tried drawing backgrounds that I preferred drawing characters. My passion for character art really developed once I started College.”
Bringing ideas to life through game development
The Creative Media department hosts an annual fundraising event called BitCrush, which celebrates student creativity and teamwork. Students design and create games alongside other creative products such as pin badges and retro gaming consoles, gaining valuable experience while raising money for Demelza.
Destiny particularly enjoyed working on the BitCrush project. She said: “I’ve been able to focus on character design and try animating a character. Working as a group is nice because everyone has different skill sets. Some people do coding, others focus on backgrounds, and I do character art. It all comes together really well.”
Destiny and her team created a game called Rockin’ and Rollin’, which the College selected to showcase at the BitCrush Festival 2025.
She explained: “The game is called Rockin’ and Rollin’. You play as a girl in an 80s-themed disco who’s been shrunk and is trying to escape to catch her ride. She’s on roller skates, and it’s a simple platformer. I designed the main character myself. She’s got pink hair and a neon outfit. Seeing people play a game with a character I created has been amazing.”
Seeing others enjoy her work gave her a sense of achievement and strengthened her confidence.
Learning industry standard skills
The course gives Destiny access to professional facilities and industry-standard software, helping her prepare for a future career in the creative industry. She uses graphics tablets, professional PCs, and programmes such as Adobe Photoshop and GameMaker.
She said: “All the artists use Adobe Photoshop for drawing, and it’s quite simple to get the hang of. It’s widely used in the industry. We also use graphics tablets and professional equipment, which makes a big difference.”
Through hands-on projects and access to professional tools, Destiny continues to build practical skills and develop a strong portfolio for her future career.
Building confidence and community
College has helped Destiny grow in confidence and feel more comfortable expressing herself. She has built strong friendships and enjoys being part of a supportive environment.
She said: “I’ve made a lot of friends, and my teachers are really lovely, which makes learning feel easy. Everyone at College is really fun to talk to, and people are always kind and supportive. Being around non-judgmental people has helped me feel much more confident.”
Ready for the future
As Destiny looks ahead, she feels prepared for the next stage of her journey.
She said: “I’m looking at either doing another year on an art course or finding an apprenticeship or job. I feel 100% prepared. The course has made me more confident in my art and encouraged me to draw more”.
Destiny’s journey shows how College helps students grow in confidence, discover their passions, and develop valuable skills that prepare them for their future. Her story highlights how creativity, opportunity, and support come together at College to help students turn their ambitions into reality.
If you’re ready to explore your creativity, discover our Creative and Design courses.
