UM eSports Blends Play and Community

Transcript

Tapping into one of the fastest growing entertainment industries in the world. The University of Montana is the first in the state to field an Esports team. Now we’re heading over to the game room in the University Center to meet Tessa, a business student, and Esports team member. Tessa game on.

– Thanks Alex, I’m really excited to share my story with you. I’ve lived in Missoula for all of my life and I’ve always known about the university here, but it wasn’t until I heard about the Esports team that I decided it might be the right place for me to start my college studies. I’m a gamer and finding this community in my hometown is a gift. The University of Montana is one of the few places in the state that offers junior varsity and varsity levels of competitive play with teams from around the country. League of Legends is the game that I play competitively and joining this team has improved my play dramatically. I knew what I tried out last year that I had found a place to call home on this campus. Now I’m teaching a class for other University of Montana students to understand the fundamentals of Esports. One of the things I appreciate coming from the Esports club is that we are a tight knit community, of all different kinds of people. You’ll meet students from every major and every possible background. Connecting with other students through gaming is a great way to make friends and learn about different opportunities here in the university. When I joined the Esports club, the director stressed that inclusivity is what they strive for. I love being a part of something that is welcoming to anyone who wants to join. During my experience in Esports I’ve made plenty of connections to my business classes. I’ve learned how to communicate in different styles to get my point across for various people, whether it’s in a game or teaching in the classroom. I’m also very excited to start a new internship with the Esports program. Connecting my passion for gaming and my interests in business has made the University of Montana the best place for me. I hope that this story inspires more students to join us. And now back to you, Alex.

– I love your story Tessa, gaming provides a platform for everyone to connect and build community, and it’s great to hear about the leadership opportunities you’ve found within your team as a teacher. Take care of Tessa.