Branford Student Wins College Scholarship!

Branford native Brandon Cimino was recently awarded a college scholarship from the Entertainment Software Association Foundation (ESAF). Brandon is pursuing a degree in interactive entertainment design at Becker College in Worcester, Mass., and is one of 30 students who received ESAF scholarships to support their video game-related studies at accredited four-year colleges and universities across the United States.

ESAF is the U.S. video game industry’s philanthropic arm. With nearly 400 American schools now offering courses, professional certificates, or degrees related to computer and video game design, ESAF’s scholarship program helps diverse, imaginative, and skilled students pursue degrees towards careers in the flourishing entertainment software industry.

“These exceptional students represent the future of digital entertainment,” said Michael D. Gallagher, president and CEO of ESA, the trade association that represents U.S. computer and video game publishers. “They will bring diversity, innovation, and growth to our dynamic industry. We are proud to support their pursuit of critical 21st century skills that will undoubtedly put them on a path toward professional success.”

This year’s recipients attend 25 schools across 16 states; they include California Polytechnic State University, Champlain College, DePaul University, DigiPen Institute of Technology, Indiana State University, Johns Hopkins University, Parsons School of Design, Rochester Institute of Technology, University of Idaho, University of Pennsylvania and University of Washington.

Each recipient will receive $3,000 for their respective academic pursuits, which include degrees in game design and development, simulation arts and sciences, game art and animation, visual effects, computer science and engineering, and graphic design. This spectrum highlights the growth and breadth of video game-related courses and programs offered at American colleges and universities. 

“I congratulate ESAF for establishing this award for college students,” said Melanie Stegman, Ph.D., Director, Learning Technologies Program at the Federation of American Scientists. “These scholarships create opportunities for students both inside and outside of the classroom, supporting their academic pursuits as well as independent projects related to their degrees. Participating in a game or simulation team-effort in addition to classwork keeps students motivated while helping them develop practical, collaborative skills.”