Meet Will Durham, a rising Rocket League star at MC Digital!
From competing in tough local tournaments to fierce international competitions, Will’s time on Middlesbrough College’s esports team, MC Hammers, has been nothing short of extraordinary.
As a dedicated member of the Rocket League division, Will has gained plenty of experience in competitive gaming alongside studying for his Level 3 Diploma in Creative Media Practice at MC Digital.
However, he’s also gained valuable skills beyond the controller – skills that he can take forward in both the esports industry and his future career!
Will said: “I’ve always enjoyed gaming, so joining the esports team was a no brainer. It’s been a really great experience; I’ve made new friends and had the opportunity to play in a range of professional tournaments.
“Before joining the team, I’d never been in an environment where you are in a competition with league brackets, so it’s been great. I’ve had the chance to talk to new people and set up, which makes it all feel very professional.
“We’ve just finished competing in a tournament against a college in France, which was a brilliant opportunity. With the help of translators, we got to engage in video calls in the lead up to it with the other team and talk about the tournament after.
“Video calls and having conversations with people I don’t know is something I never would have done before. However, my social skills have got a lot better because of the team and the experiences we’ve shared; I’ve really gained confidence and become a better person.
“My favourite moment on the team so far is the first day, when I made friends with all my teammates. We’re all completely different people and on different courses, so we never would have met had it not been for the esports team.
“I’m now friends with people who study sports and engineering – people that aren’t in my lessons or building. It’s been great to make so many new friends.
“I’d recommend anyone to join the esports team – even if you aren’t the best at gaming. You’ve got teammates there to support you when you’re not playing your best, who can help you and support you as you adjust your play style!”
Will has enjoyed his time on the esports team so much that come September, he is making the switch from Level 3 Creative Media to Level 3 National Extended Diploma Esports course at MC Digital!
This switch will allow Will to continue to sharpen his skills for the esports industry, alongside learning new skills for games design, computer networking, and more.
“After College, I definitely want a career within the esports industry. Even if not as an esports player, but someone who helps with tournament set ups. There are lots of different job roles that are needed to put professional esports events together, and being on the team has really opened my eyes up to the opportunities available.
When asked about studying at Middlesbrough College, Will said:
“MC Digital has the best facilities in the area for Digital courses. The equipment is exactly what you need and gives you great hands-on experience.
“I really enjoy studying here – there’s only fifteen people in one class and all the lecturers are really nice. They treat you like an adult, so it’s a better experience than school.
“I was struggling with my work at one point, but the teachers helped me so much. I really appreciate what they do – they are so kind to students. They feel like your friends and talk to you with respect.
“At school, I was never excited about getting up and going in. But now, I wake up every day and I’m actually excited to go into College, meet my friends, and do my work!”
Are you leaving school this year and curious about a career in the Digital or Media industry? Find out more about our IT and Digital courses today!
From hands-on courses for school leavers to degree-level qualifications that prepare you for a successful career in this exciting industry, find your perfect course and turn your dream into a profession with Middlesbrough College.
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