Start your career journey at Teesside University’s open day

Jemma Harris’ career took off after graduating from Teesside University and she is now a proud member of Bafta as well as Head of Production at 22cans.

And she is using her success to try and encourage more women into the games industry.

Teesside University is hosting an undergraduate open day on 19 June, from 10.00am to 3.00pm, where prospective students can find out all about courses, facilities and student life.

Jemma graduated with a BA (Hons) Media and Television Production Professional Practice in 2005.

She went on to work as an Assistant Producer at Midway Games, before moving to Microsoft’s Lionhead Studios. Jemma then joined independent company 22cans – set up in March 2012 by a small team with a wealth of experience in computer games development.

'There are virtually no elements of my job that haven’t been helped by my degree,' explained Jemma.

'My current job involves co-ordinating every aspect of video game development. This ranges from motion-capture shooting in Hollywood and London film studios, to voice-over sessions to producing trailers. It involves creativity, organisation, vision and a healthy dose of management and problem-solving.'

Jemma’s success led her to become a member of Bafta where she is involved in their ‘Women into Games’ working group.

She added: 'Being a Bafta member is great because it opens up some fantastic networking opportunities with other people in the industry and helps you to create movements. Encouraging more women to become involved in the games industry is something I am extremely passionate about.'

Jemma says that studying at Teesside University was the correct decision and not a day goes by when she doesn’t draw on what she learnt during her degree.

'I would definitely recommend people wanting to study media or get into the games industry to consider Teesside University,” said Jemma.

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