This past week, students from the College of Esports had an incredible opportunity to participate in Esports Insider’s ESI Lisbon 2024, the largest event in Esports Insider’s history. From September 23rd-25th, students were right at the heart of the action, gaining invaluable hands-on experience while networking with top professionals in the global esports industry. Events like ESI Lisbon are a cornerstone of the immersive, career-focused education we provide at the College of Esports, and the impact on our students was nothing short of remarkable.
Real-World Experience in the Heart of Esports
Attending ESI Lisbon offered our students a chance to move beyond the classroom and experience the dynamic environment of a major esports event. As Lewis Douglas, Programme Leader: Games and IEB & Digital Marketing Course Leader, highlighted:
“Having our College of Esports students work with ESI in Lisbon is an incredible opportunity, immersing them in the heart of the esports sector. It has been great to see the students gaining real-world experience of helping run an event of this scale, but also networking with global leaders. This is the kind of hands-on journey that we provide at the College of Esports as it helps to truly prepare them for success.”
Through their involvement, students engage in a variety of roles—from logistics to event operations—building critical skills that will serve them throughout their careers. They were hands-on, contributing to the event’s success, while soaking in the knowledge and experience around them.
Networking with Industry Leaders
Beyond the practical experience, the networking opportunities at ESI Lisbon were invaluable. Students had the chance to meet some of the most influential names in esports, gaining insights into the industry’s inner workings. This kind of exposure is an essential part of breaking into esports, an industry driven by connections and collaboration.
As James Fraser-Murison, Director of Fraser Esports, pointed out:
“Other than being surrounded by experienced and passionate people at the height of the craft, it’s a chance to have organic and sincere conversations about all things esports and beyond. Sometimes the best parts of these events are not the pre-planned meetings you have booked, but the power of networking and kindness of others over an impromptu coffee… or beer. For me, leaving an event with more friends and contacts (in that order!), is the true value of events like these but a tough metric to judge. But don’t doubt it. Go with it!”
For many students, the informal, unplanned moments of interaction led to lasting professional relationships—an invaluable takeaway from the event.
A Tailored Opportunity to Enhance Career Prospects
The College of Esports’ participation in ESI Lisbon was part of Esports Insider’s new Work Experience Program, specifically designed for colleges and universities. For just €60 per student, participants received event passes for two full days, access to exclusive entertainment, and slots for hands-on work experience. This program offers a unique blend of practical involvement and career-building opportunities.
The additional perks, such as exclusive access to the ESI Film Festival and the ESI Hall of Fame, were bonuses that further enriched the students’ understanding of the broader esports ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
ESI Lisbon 2024 exemplified the College of Esports’ commitment to preparing students for real-world success. By blending practical experience with world-class networking opportunities, our students gained a competitive edge that will serve them well as they pursue their careers in esports.
As we look ahead, the College of Esports will continue to seize opportunities like this to help students unlock their full potential in the rapidly growing world of esports. For those passionate about building a future in this exciting industry, events like ESI Lisbon are just the beginning.
