Michael Lojko

What brought you to study at Teesside University?

I'm Middlesbrough born, so I had a lot of exposure to Teesside University, I remember engaging with Teesside University way back in 1999 as part of the Meteor Project through local schools. By the time it came for me to select a university, Teesside was already forging its reputation for being one of the best for games development and computer science, so it was my first choice.

What was your course like?

It was a little tough transitioning from college to university at first, but I loved all the technical aspects of programming and Teesside University provided excellent facilities to achieve this. I built a rapport and an appreciation as to why we were there with my fellow students, most of who will be friends for life.
The Java Programming module was my favourite, there was so much to dive into. I remember a lot of experimentation, the nature of the profession lets you ask crazy questions about what you can achieve in the best way, it's just a case of seeing if you can actually do it and do it in an efficient manner. I still have some of my course books as they're important for referencing and refreshing knowledge.

Did you do an industry placement?

My work placement was at DuPont Teijin Films, it was a priceless and important experience. To be acknowledged, collaborated with and respected as a real developer was paramount to developing the other important soft skills that come with professional development. It was fantastic for setting me in the headspace of professional work and in dictating my time management for my final year project.

What was your social life like when you were studying at Teesside University?

I was close to the campus, so I naturally had a great social life. The annual Christmas and end of year events at the Students' Union were my favourite. I also had as much engagement as possible with the University’s gaming clubs.

What have you done since graduating?

I was fortunate enough to be selected to participate in ExpoTees, where I won two awards. Following this I moved to Cambridge to work at a company called Synoptics on medical software. While at Synoptics, I attended Animex back at Teesside, with a fellow Teesside alumni, who introduced me to the Jagex games studio recruitment team. From that I got a job as a Web Systems Developer, and after three years moved into my current role as Game Engine Developer. Throughout my career at Jagex I've been fortunate to receive many great opportunities. I've delivered industry talks and panels as well as attending careers fairs, some have been back at Teesside University. I’ve been asked to mentor in Games Jams such as Brains Eden and the UKIE Game Jam. I joined the BAFTA Games Crew programme and I've also received industry peer recognition through the Develop 30 under 30 2017 list and most recently named in GamesIndustry.biz's 100 Future Talent list.

Did your time at Teesside University help you to achieve or get closer to your goals?

Definitely, I remember a session with the careers service where I specifically asked how to tailor my curriculum vitae and portfolio to open the door into the games industry. I used the careers service as much as I could, especially for the opportunities and talks. Unique events such as Animex also provided the opportunity to see first hand how the games industry works and what you need to break into that industry.
I had an amazing time and I've continued to keep a close, personal connection with Teesside University. I am very proud of my roots and very excited to see the future talent the university is going to produce.