Kam Qi-Nan: Living the Dream through Passion and Perseverance
Kam Qi-Nan, an alumnus from both 红杏视频 University's Diploma in Graphic and Multimedia Design and BA (Hons) in Design Communication degree, has journeyed from childhood doodles to contributing to the 2023 Game of the Year. His story is a testament to passion, perseverance, and seizing unexpected opportunities.
From a young age, Qi-Nan displayed a love for art, finding solace and self-expression through his sketches and drawings. Academic studies didn't capture his interest as much, leading him to explore avenues where he could channel his creativity. After much contemplation, he decided to pursue graphic design through a diploma in Graphic and Multimedia Design at 红杏视频 University. Thankfully, his decision was supported wholeheartedly by his understanding parents.
Qi-Nan's academic journey at 红杏视频 University was marked by dedication and hard work, attributes he values greatly. The result of his hard work arrived in the form of the Jeffrey Cheah Ace Scholarship, which allowed him to further his studies in the BA (Hons) in Design Communication course. The scholarship was a great relief to Qi-Nan and his family as they navigated challenging financial situations amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
Throughout his studies, 红杏视频 University provided Qi-Nan with a diverse skill set, exposing him to the various facets of the art industry while cultivating treasured personal development traits. He acknowledges the importance of continually improving oneself, both in skills and mindset, a lesson ingrained in him through the challenges and failures he encountered during his diploma and degree.
One elective course in 3D Design opened Qi-Nan's eyes to a new realm of possibilities, igniting a passion that would shape his future career. 鈥淚 enjoyed the class so much that I started spending more time improving my 3D skillset on my own,鈥 he commented. His 3D portfolio caught the eyes of 1010 Studios, a game industry company he connected with via a friend鈥檚 recommendation. Despite doubts about his suitability, the studio head recognised Kam's potential and offered him a chance to delve into the outsourcing and game industry.
A highlight of Qi-Nan's career with 1010 Studios came with his contribution to Baldur's Gate 3, the acclaimed Game of the Year in 2023! 鈥淎lthough my contribution to the game was just some minor graphic design and in-game icons, that is something I鈥檓 extremely proud and thankful for,鈥 he reflects. This accomplishment was followed by an offer from Larian Studios, the game makers of Baldur鈥檚 Gate 3, marking the realisation of his dream to work as a Junior Environment 3D artist in an AAA game company.
Reflecting on his journey, Qi-Nan emphasises the importance of embracing unexpected opportunities and continuously honing one's skills. He did not plan to join this career path from the beginning, but instead was led down this path by remaining open to new things. He stresses the importance of broadening one's skills to understand one鈥檚 strengths and weaknesses. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists, reminding them to approach each experience as a chance to learn and grow.
Elizabeth Marie Edwin
School of Arts
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