THE INSIDER - FALL 2024

TEXAS COLLEGE RAGING STEERS ESPORTS TEAM MEMBERS GAME IN THE NEW ESPORTS GAMING AND ACADEMIC LAB

In addition to the gaming aspect of the initiative, there is also an academic career pathway component. Through collaboration with the Texas College Office of Student Affairs and Office of Academic Affairs, as well as Blaze Fire Games, there is a dedicated educational interdisciplinary series of esports micro-credentialing customized content offered by the Blaze Fire Games Education Department; over 100 students have already received certification. Students participating in the courses benefit from exposure to the professional preparation of esports and competitive gaming. "I am ecstatic about our esports initiative and the investment we have made into the program,” commented President Dwight J. Fennell. “It offers another extraordinary opportunity for the College to be on the cutting edge and uniquely connect with our students. And, the partnership allows students to build their future career brand in the marketplace with potential employers." Collectively, the esports initiative emphasizes competition and student team play, which affords many benefits of traditional athletics, such as sportsmanship, leadership, communication, and teamwork, as well as academic offerings, such as micro credentialing, to forge career pathways for students.

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