Victoria Horsley
Head of Marketing, National Association of Collegiate Esports
Many people believe that the only way to succeed in the esports industry is to become a top player. Some practice diligently for countless hours to be the best at their game of choice. For the majority of us though, we do not get as far as we would like to.
However, there are so many more ways to enter into esports than the average community member believes. Personally speaking, I have handled esports management and events for three years. I now work as the head of marketing for the National Association of Collegiate Esports. With so many choices in the industry, you can be sure to get your dream career.
Breaking into the business
So, how can you get involved if you are not that top-tier player? This is a top question I get in a community that seems so male-dominated. As a woman, you are given many unique, natural talents. Find what you are good at and what makes you happy, then apply that to your career of choice. In esports, opportunities exist in fields such as: management, media, broadcasting, photography, videography, graphic design, entrepreneurship, digital media management, event planning, hospitality, and many more.
The beauty of this industry is the rapid growth we see on a daily basis. Not only does this mean that opportunities are abundant, but it means you can jump in at any point. The esports community is essentially a giant ocean and we are only minnows in a corner. We expand, and we expand together. With growth comes even more avenues of opportunity. What may have not seemed possible last year could be the biggest field next year. The beauty of the unknown is the chance to blossom in ways that would be viewed as unacceptable in a more matured field. Esports embraces the best in so many people because it gives them the opportunity to be who they truly are. It is not yet known what we will need five years down the road, and so your talents may be just what the industry needs.
Follow the passion
As a woman in esports, I encourage you to pursue your passion. Maybe even explore avenues you did not know existed. Never take no for an answer. If someone tells you that you cannot do something, pave your own path. Chances are, numerous people will follow you. Now is the time to jump into an industry that is growing at an exponential rate. Esports needs your talents, and more importantly, it needs you. Go fearlessly into the unknown ocean of esports and I promise you will not regret it.
Victoria Horsley, Head of Marketing, National Association of Collegiate Esports, us.editorial@mediaplanet.com