Paul Alicea ’20

POE: Strategic Multimedia Design with Computer Programming

I initially came to Juniata College with the intention of getting into IMA. But, I found myself interested in other classes related to multimedia. “Integrated Media Arts” is a more design-oriented title, so my individualized POE title became “Strategic Multimedia Design”. “Strategic” encapsulated my analytical and message analysis skills. “Multimedia” included my knowledge of the many forms of digital media. “Design” illustrates that I know about design theory and application in regard to multimedia.

Also, due to taking a lot of programming courses, it wasn’t too difficult to get the “Computer Programming” secondary emphasis. In addition to my courses, I also was given many work experiences on campus. Under my belt, I have graphic design, video production, and web design jobs. As a result of these great experiences, I feel like quite the well-rounded student!

A key experience that I was granted was an internship with Dark Tonic games. Working with Dark Tonic games was a fantastic opportunity for me. The entire company was handled remotely, and so came a lot of scrum management experience. I was tasked to work on the combat design for the game and had research and tasks to complete a few hours daily. We had zoom meetings online every Wednesday, and it was interesting to see how the artists, programmers, and designers bounced off each other to solve the game’s pressing tasks.

“As a result of the experiences I have had on and off campus, I feel like quite the well-rounded student!”

I not only learned about combat design, level design, and QA testing but also learned remote communication and project management skills. It was fantastic to have the opportunity to work on some of the most important design aspects of the game. I was able to become directly involved with components corresponding to the field that I would like a career. The skills that I have acquired throughout my time at Juniata has allowed me to better connect and collaborate with others during my internship. One of my tasks was project management. This experience has strengthened my leadership skills immensely.

My goal after graduation would be to have a career in the Game Development field. More specifically, I have my sights set on a Game Designer position. However, I can see myself molding into other aspects of game development using my art, programming, graphic design, and video production skills. I’ve acquired these skills through individualizing my POE and taking courses specializing in these departments. If possible, I’d enjoy being able to utilize all of my skills!