The new computer lab in room B-15 is giving students more than just upgraded technology. It’s now home to competitive esports, video game design, and even professional certifications for the esports 3 class.
The computer lab has ethernet, better gaming computers, and more room for the students to work with. It supports Unreal Engine, a professional game design software that the esports classes utilize. The upgrades give students real-world experiences such as managing esports tournaments, designing levels in Unreal Engine, and producing videos using Adobe software skills that can benefit students in future media or game design careers.
Laura Compton, who teaches esports, explained that she helps run tournaments and organize matches with other schools. The new lab setup makes it easier to give more space to the computers and avoids the tangled wires from the old room.
“It should help with getting more computers so we can have more opportunities for students,” Compton said.
The gaming computers are also important for running Unreal Engine, which requires powerful computer parts. This year, the school even added a third level esports class where students can work more independently and prepare for a professional certification in the game design platform. This is a big opportunity for anyone interested in careers in game design.
“We have year three now, which is more independent. Students are preparing for competitions and certification in Unreal Engine which is huge,” Compton said.
The lab is not only used for esports, but it is also shared with the new video production class which uses Adobe software to edit and render videos. Since those programs also need powerful computers, the lab supports students in more than one field.
Setting up the lab wasn’t easy. The move took longer than expected and Compton had to clear out old downloads to make space.
“I had to wipe all the computers because there were too many downloads taking up space…Now I’m trying to find a way to monitor what students download so everyone can save their work and the lab stays efficient,” said Compton.
Despite these challenges, students are excited about having their own personal space just for esports even if there’s no room for gaming chairs yet.
The new lab isn’t just a classroom, it’s a place where students can compete, work on projects, and get experience with real world technology skills. With more students able to participate and better technology, the esports program and game design classes are becoming much better.
