In a world where parents often worry about their kids spending too much time playing video games, a recent study by the Education and Employment Research Center at Rutgers University offers a surprising perspective. The study reveals how hobbies such as gaming, modding games, and other related activities can actually lead to lucrative job opportunities in the high-demand field of Information Technology (IT).
According to lead author Eliza Peterson, many students don’t realize the potential career pathways that can stem from their hobbies. For example, hosting a Minecraft server for friends could translate into skills that are valuable in Server Administration, leading to a successful career in IT. The study, supported by the National Science Foundation, involved interviews with 43 students and alumni from the Ivy Tech Community College School of Information Technology in Indiana, shedding light on a common trajectory among participants.
The research found that a majority of participants developed an interest in technology at a young age, often bonding with their parents over shared activities. Many of them eventually gravitated towards hobbies like gaming, coding, programming, or building computers. While these hobbies may have seemed like mere pastimes during their teenage years, a pivotal moment of realization – the „hobby-to-career reckoning“ – prompted them to pursue IT studies at their community college.
One participant shared their experience of switching majors from business to programming, highlighting the importance of following one’s passion. Another alum, now a software engineer at J.P. Morgan, credited their hobbyist coding background for preparing them for the challenges of working in a large financial institution. These anecdotes underscore the value of hobbies in shaping future career paths.
With gaming being a popular pastime among American teens, the study adds to existing research on the cognitive benefits of gaming and its potential to develop essential soft skills. The pathway from gaming to IT work is particularly significant given the high demand for IT professionals in the job market. With nearly 4.5 million computer and IT professionals in the U.S. earning a median annual wage of $104,420, the field offers lucrative opportunities for those with the right skills and training.
Despite the promising outlook for IT careers, the study also highlights challenges that aspiring professionals may face. The digital divide, lack of broadband internet access, and parental skepticism can hinder students from pursuing their interests in IT. However, the researchers emphasize the importance of reframing perceptions around gaming and supporting young individuals in exploring their passions.
For parents and educators, the study serves as a reminder to consider the potential benefits of hobbies like gaming in shaping future career paths. By encouraging and nurturing these interests, individuals can develop valuable skills that may lead to successful careers in IT. So, the next time your teen picks up a controller, consider it as more than just playtime – it could be the first step towards a fulfilling and lucrative career in Information Technology.