PAVI – My Ticket into the Gaming Biz

A review of the Pacific Audio Visual Institute (PAVI) - Game Design & 3D Animation program.
By Lisa L. who graduated in 2009. 1,272 views.

I chose PAVI because I wanted to expand my art education. I attended art school for two years, and then decided to focus on fashion design for another. I moved to New York to pursue it, but realized that it wouldn’t be a good fit for me career-wise. So I moved back home to Vancouver and decided my next step would be in game design; game design being a relatively well paying industry and Vancouver being an ideal place to get started.

I wanted an affordable school that had small class sizes so that I could get more one-on-one help from the teachers, was located close to where I lived, and covered all the topics I wanted to learn.

I was ready and willing for a challenge and PAVI didn’t disappoint.

The Game Design and 3D Animation Program

I had no education in 3D animation, nor did I have any education in Game design but I was ready and willing for a challenge and PAVI didn’t disappoint. I had started the program expecting to learn all of the technical aspects that are required to make a video game and was satisfied when I finished all the classes.

The program was broken down into all of the stages required to making a video game: Animation, 3D modeling, Art, Texturing, Lighting, Code, Level Design, and Audio. There may be a few courses that certain students will think they may not need, but it’s integral for anyone entering the gaming industry to know all of these roles, what’s required to make a game, and how they’re all interconnected. After taking the program, it becomes clear to students which path they should take in terms of their career. Learning the software and specific roles will allow students to determine for themselves what they do and do not enjoy.

The best parts of the program were the short amount of time needed to acquire the diploma, the short class days (I could still attend work and not feel too overwhelmed), and the small classes that were definitely beneficial in getting personal help from the teachers and fellow classmates.

The instructors for the most part were well equipped to teach the classes and if they couldn’t answer any questions, they would spend time to find an answer for you. It was difficult at times but they were always available inside and outside of class hours to help anyone if needed. The curriculum was quite dense but the assignments and tests were not overwhelming and could sometimes be combined. My education in art was definitely an asset but learning new software is always difficult. Equipment was also always accessible for students by sign-out process.

I would recommend this program to anyone interested in the gaming industry if they have little to no experience with the software.

The Verdict

I would recommend this program to anyone interested in the gaming industry if they have little to no experience with the software. If they have a pretty good knowledge of software it can be a little basic for them in certain classes. I think it’s a good introduction to all of what’s required in making video games and will give students the tools necessary for entry into the gaming industry. I am happy with my decision in attending PAVI and feel I have the necessary education to enter my specific field.

Upon graduating I have been working on my portfolio and trying to meet more people in the industry. Some of the staff have been very helpful in helping me with opportunities. Recently, I was interviewed for an internship at Genius Factor Games and since writing this review, I’ve found out that they will be taking me on board! I’m excited to enter the 3D and gaming industry and am quite prepared to learn more from my internship at Genius Factor Games. What a cool company!