The Student Success Endowment: Clifford

I’ve always been fascinated by video games, not just playing them but figuring out how they’re made. From experimenting with game engines to sketching out my own levels, I knew from a young age that I wanted to create games for a living. Studying Games Production at university has been an incredible experience, but getting here hasn’t always been easy.

University means a lot to me, it’s not just about getting a degree, but about turning my passion into a career. I’ve learned so much, but a big challenge has always been affording the right tools to keep up with the industry. That’s where the Opportunity Bursary has made a huge difference.

Thanks to the bursary, I was able to invest in high-end PC parts to build a machine capable of handling industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya, Unity, and Unreal Engine 5. Having a powerful setup has made a huge difference to my workflow, allowing me to work on more complex projects without being held back by hardware limitations. The funding also allowed me to attend EGX and Develop:Brighton - two major gaming events where I met industry professionals, learned from their experiences, and got to see the latest innovations in game development. These opportunities have been a game-changer (literally) for my career prospects.

Beyond the technical side, this bursary has helped me focus on my work without constantly stressing about finances. Right now, I’m developing a fighting game prototype with AI-driven combat mechanics, something I wouldn’t have had the confidence or resources to attempt before. Being able to fully commit to my projects has made such a difference in my final year.

Looking ahead, I’m hoping to land a role in game design or technical art after graduation. My dream is to work at a studio that’s pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling, or maybe even start my own indie project one day! The bursary has given me access to tools, experiences, and industry connections that I wouldn’t have had otherwise, and that’s something I’ll always be grateful for.

To the donors who support the Student Success Endowment - thank you. Your generosity isn’t just helping students financially; it’s giving us the chance to pursue our ambitions without unnecessary barriers. If you’re thinking about donating, know that you’re not just funding education—you’re fuelling dreams.