Sam Tremble

Sam Tremble sitting at computer desk

Sam Tremble

BSc (Hons) Computer Games (Art and Animation) 2021

Level 1 Artist at Dovetail Games

For Sam Tremble, completely changing careers and reskilling in her 30s was one of the most daunting – and one of the best – things she’s ever done.

The talented computer games artist joined Glasgow Caledonian as a mature student after spending years working in publishing and graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Computer Games (Art and Animation in 2021).

“I joined as an older student which brought along its own anxieties, but they were quelled really quickly because everyone was so supportive,” she said.

“I would say anyone who has concerns about going into study at a later age, you definitely shouldn’t."

“It’s daunting going from full time work back to study. It’s a real adjustment period but definitely worth it to get into the industry you’re passionate about.”

Sam now works as an artist for Dovetail Games, known for simulation-style games such as Train Simulator, Bass Fishing and Flight Sim World.

Now, Sam is travelling overseas with Dovetail to train a studio in India, sharing her expertise and passion for her craft.

“I love the work. There is a lot of creative freedom, particularly at Dovetail,” she said.

“I specialise in lighting to help create the detailed landscapes in the game however there’s a lot of room for overlap and learning new skills and that’s what I enjoy the most because there’s just so much to learn.

“You are never going to stop learning. That’s probably what I’ve enjoyed the most, I’ve just kept on learning and I enjoy the technical side of art. I like building things and creating pretty things.”

The pandemic hit during Sam’s third year of study, which provided unique challenges.

“There was that big change and suddenly we are doing everything from home. A key memory for me was how GCU were really supportive,” she said.

“I also had to go through surgery during my final submissions, they were so flexible with dates, my lecturers were great - my computer died at home so they sent out a computer to me, I was so surprised at just how supportive they were.”

Other highlights for Sam during her time at Glasgow Caledonian include the hands-on, industry-relevant nature of her course.

“GCU lecturers have a wealth of knowledge and passion for the games industry to ensure you’re in the best place possible when you graduate,” she said.

“There was a module specifically for setting up a portfolio which was great. I remember GCU had loads of expert talks, they were always bringing people in and there were a couple of lecturers who were particularly proactive with that which was a boon.

“I literally got a job less than two months after graduating, and the industry is competitive, and the practical nature of the course was an important part of that.”

Sam, who is giving back to current GCU students as a mentor with the MINT Programme, said the best piece of advice she’s learned throughout her study is to never stop learning.

“Go out of your way to keep learning outside of the curriculum, lecturers will encourage you to do so anyway but take them up on that,” she said.

“Also take them up on any extracurricular activities they propose like game jams. Definitely do the mentor programme and keep on top of the news and trends in the industry.”

For more on GCU alumni mentoring, internship, networking and talk opportunities, visit MINT Programme | Glasgow Caledonian University | Scotland, UK (gcu.ac.uk)

GCU lecturers have a wealth of knowledge and passion for the games industry to ensure you’re in the best place possible when you graduate.