Esports – Deanna
Level 3 Diploma in Esports
Why did you choose to study Esports here with us at Dearne Valley College?
‘I had applied to other colleges to study esports, but they felt my age was not appropriate which made me feel very let down especially seen as I had the grades to get in.
So, I felt there was a bias towards my age with me being a mature student, but Dearne Valley College welcomed me with open arms which made me really happy!’
What knowledge/skills did you develop as part of this course?
‘I gained valuable experience by holding an esports taster session for the pupils at Wath Academy. This involved me planning the event, as well as talking to pupils in a fun and informative way to control the classroom which helped build my confidence when speaking to others.
I also learnt better communication skills when taking part in Student Champs, this helped me speak clearly and get used to talking in a professional way in a team.’
What’s the most creative way a lesson or information within the course was delivered?
‘Roleplay! One of the most fun ways we did part of a module was we had to present a concept esports business to a bank advisor (our tutor), this was a fun experience as my tutor took on the role as a “stereotypical” bank advisor that did not know anything about esports so we had to educate him in what esports was and successfully acquire funding from him to launch this business.
This was a very fun and interactive way of learning and understanding that the “real-world” might not accept esports without being informed of its importance before-hand.’
Deanna“It’s not “gaming all day” as many people think, there is so so so much more to the esports course! Its business, its social media, its physical and mental health!”
How was the course delivered overall?
‘The course was delivered fantastically! I would sometimes get stuck on the “BTEC language” when it came to assignments and my tutors (Lee and Richard) were always on hand to help me break it down into easier chunks so I could do the best of my ability when it came to my written work.
I feel that the lessons were taught (although formal at times) in a more relaxed informal way and this made the written work much more enjoyable and rewarding once it had been done and much easier for remembering key information for assignments.’
What were some challenges you faced whilst studying and how did you overcome them?
‘One of the challenges I faced was access to a laptop! I did not have a PC at home at the time so I would either have to go to a local library or go into College to do my work, but I was informed I could borrow a College laptop to help me with this which I did!’
How did Dearne Valley College or your tutors support you through your journey with us?
‘During my stay at Dearne Valley College I had multiple therapy sessions with Katie alongside my studies, even though I felt that I did not need this all the time. The weekly sessions really helped me keep on top of my studies while keeping on top of my own mental health and helped me with my day-to-day life struggles.
My tutors were very supportive of my physical health during my studies, giving me opportunities to come in later/attend online when my health deemed it necessary (I had under gone surgery).’
What advice would you give to anyone considering doing the Esports course?
‘JUST DO IT! Take that jump, it’s not “gaming all day” as many people think, there is so so so much more to the esports course! Its business, its social media, its physical and mental health!
There are so many different topics covered in this one course it’s great! The best thing I found out while studying esports at Dearne Valley College was that it was so diverse! There were people with disabilities, different genders and even different ages, the gaming community is so welcoming.’
What did you enjoy the most from the course and your time here with us?
‘Honestly, I would say that I enjoyed plenty from my time at Dearne Valley College!
Not only did I really enjoy learning about the esports industry, but I also met my best friend Freya whilst I was studying. Before I came to Dearne Valley College, I had next to no friends, and I can honestly say I have made a friend for life!!!’
What are your next steps and future plans?
‘I currently study at Confetti as part of Nottingham Trent University (NTU), I am on the Content Creation course. I am focusing on using photography and other content creation skills to highlight esports events my university holds.
In an ideal world I want to be a Gaming Youtuber that focuses on esport titles and women diversity within the community.’
