Essi Jukkala, Shipyard Games

What have you studied and why?

I graduated from Aalto University with a Master's degree in Computer, Communication and Information Sciences. My main subject was Game Design and Production. However, it was a long journey. After primary school, I thought for a long time about whether I should even go to high school, as I was also interested in a career in music. But I ended up in high school, and it was my physics teacher, a wonderful, inspiring older lady, who encouraged me to pursue science.
I was always good at maths, but later I became interested in visual arts, especially photography. After high school I thought about becoming a photographer, but I was also interested in engineering. Eventually I decided to apply to Aalto University to study electronics and electrical engineering, with the aim of studying acoustics for a master's degree.

During my freshman year, however, I realised that I prefer coding. I decided to switch to computer science, and during my studies I got to know computer graphics. I was sold when I heard about the opportunity to apply for a Master's degree, where you can combine art and technology.

How did you become a Game Programmer?

During my studies, I worked a lot as an assistant in university courses, developing course materials and guiding students, especially in C and C++ programming. Although I still have an interest in teaching, I applied for a job in the games industry towards the end of my studies. I also wanted to get some "real work" experience in the games industry. Even before I graduated, I started working at my current job at Shipyard Games game studio. As a game programmer, I develop location-based games based on the user's location and map, and code everything related to game functionality.

What's the best thing about your job?

The best things about my job are problem solving and creativity. Developing different functionalities requires careful planning, and then working independently on the implementation. Sometimes unexpected problems arise that need to be solved one way or another. My job is interesting, and in a small company everyone has a lot of responsibility.

What have been the highlights of your career and the most important lessons you have learned?

Even though I'm just starting my career, I've already experienced a lot of success! The best moments are when, after a long period of hard work, you solve a difficult problem. It's also great to be involved in publishing a game that shows your own handwriting. One of the most important lessons I've learned so far is that you should always seek to join those who are ahead of you. This gives you the opportunity to learn more.

What are your expectations for the future?

In the near future, I hope to continue working in the games industry. Later on, it would be great if I could somehow combine teaching with my work. That's why I'm also going to study some more maths, and hopefully add a teaching qualification to my skills. On the other hand, there is always a need for coders and there is plenty to learn in this field too. Luckily, you have your whole life to learn new things!

What greetings would you like to send to a young person considering a career?

Think about what you like! If gaming is fun, could it be a career? If you like computers, could coding be your thing? Do you like to draw, study 3D modelling and become a game artist? Or if maths is really fun, could you study it more? Anything is possible, especially at a young age. Don't be afraid, even if you don't know what your thing is at first. You will find it!