Academic Build (ft. Shadi Hanna)
The Episode
Shadi Hanna shares his journey from being a passionate gamer to becoming an instructor of esports business management. He discusses his early gaming experiences and how it led him to esports. Shadi also talks about his transition to collegiate esports and the challenges he faced. He highlights the importance of extracurricular involvement and creating opportunities in the industry. Shadi's involvement with the Alberta Esports Association and Esport Canada is also discussed as part of his work in developing the esports ecosystem in Canada, one campus at a time. The conversation with Shadi explores the shift in perception of video games and the positive response to esports. It discusses the increasing interest in esports and the promotion of esports in schools. Shadi shares a good game moment and highlights the impact of esports in Alberta. The conversation also focuses on the need to create recreational and community spaces for esports and the importance of building the esports community in Edmonton. It concludes with suggestions on how to get involved in esports.
Takeaways
Gaming can provide an escape and a sense of community for individuals who may struggle with traditional social activities.
Building a career in esports requires hard work, involvement in extracurricular activities, and a willingness to create opportunities.
Esports management programs focus on the business side of the industry, teaching skills such as marketing, sponsorship, and team management.
Involvement in esports associations and organizations can help create a better academic ecosystem for esports and provide networking opportunities.
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased awareness and acceptance of video games and esports.
Important Links
https://bowvalleycollege.ca/programs-courses/business/esports-business-management
https://esportsalberta.ca/events
