Tomorrow鈥檚 leading video game developers are听being built today at 麻豆原创.

The university鈥檚 graduate video gaming program, , and undergraduate program continue to develop a pipeline of听talent to fuel Florida鈥檚 economy听at a standard of excellence few can match, affirmed by The Princeton Review and PC Gamer鈥檚 Top Video Game Design Schools 2026 rankings.

The Princeton Review and听PC Gamer听has recognized FIEA as one of the top two programs of its kind in the world six of the past seven years.

GaIM improved two spots from last year to its highest ranking, rising to No. 3 in the world. Both programs continue to hold the title of No. 1 in the South.

Strategy for Success

Since their inception, FIEA and GaIM have modeled their classrooms as close to a real-world, studio-like environment as possible, led by faculty with industry experience. That real-world perspective shapes every course, every project and every student who graduates.

鈥淥ur program intentionally emulates a collaborative ecosystem with a range of diverse talent in artists, designers and programmers, which is crucial to developing products and intellectual property,鈥� says Nicholas Zuccarello, a 3D art instructor at FIEA who has previously worked for Sony Online Entertainment and Electronic Arts Tiburon. 鈥淲e even structure projects to emulate real-world development pipelines as closely as possible within an educational setting.鈥�

Orlando: A Leading Tech Hub

With Electronic Arts (EA) and Iron听Galaxy Studios located less than a mile from听the programs鈥� home base in downtown鈥檚 , Orlando is the perfect setting to transition from college to career and now mentioned in the same breath alongside traditional tech-giant territories San Francisco, Seattle听and Los Angeles.

Many alums go directly into the game industry including Epic, Microsoft, Nintendo, Sony and more.

FIEA has graduated 1,160 students since its first class in 2006 鈥� about 100 of whom worked on several of the most popular games sold in the U.S. in 2025, including EA SPORTS College Football 26, EA SPORTS Madden NFL 26 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.

But it鈥檚 not just the gaming听companies that eagerly hire听FIEA and GaIM graduates. The skills听taught in the two programs align perfectly听with some of Orlando鈥檚 top industries.

Graduates land roles in the modeling, simulation and training sector. Others find their footing in medical technology, where interactive systems and game-based design are transforming how clinicians train and how patients heal. Knights can be found at many of the region鈥檚 big-name employers, including Disney, EA, Lockheed Martin, and Universal Destinations & Experiences, among others.

鈥淥ur students don鈥檛 just make games, they develop the creative and technical fluency to work wherever those skills are needed.鈥� 鈥� Associate Professor Peter Smith 鈥�05MS 鈥�12PhD

鈥淥ur students don鈥檛 just make games, they develop the creative and technical fluency to work wherever those skills are needed,鈥� says Associate Professor Peter Smith 鈥�05MS 鈥�12PhD, who serves as the associate director of GaIM. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 what makes GaIM graduates competitive across industries. It is a true honor to see The Princeton Review recognizing this accomplishment of our students and faculty.鈥�

Nitin Bakshi 鈥�21, who joined FIEA鈥檚 faculty as a technical art instructor after graduating with his master鈥檚 in interactive entertainment, says the program takes great pride that many of our alumni continue to live and work in Florida, contributing directly to the local economy.

鈥淭hese companies rely on artists, designers and programmers who understand real-time production,鈥� he says. 鈥淭hat is exactly the kind of training our program is built around.鈥�

Serious Business

Interest in the program has risen in the past year. FIEA recently drew its largest applicant pool with more than 200 applicants resulting in 90 new enrollees, the largest cohort to date.

For good reason.

The average starting salary for a FIEA graduate is $83,000, and 80% of graduates are in their desired fields at over 400 companies around the world.

The global market size for gaming, hardware and software sales is more than $189 billion (NewZoo鈥檚 2025 Global Games Market Report), overshadowing music and movie industries combined.

鈥淎dapting to the needs of the industry has always been one of our strengths,鈥� Bakshi says. 鈥淲hether it is new real-time technologies, new platforms, or new ways of collaboration, we work hard to make sure the program grows along with the field. Seeing the program attract more talented students each year, while continuing to evolve with the industry, is what makes me most excited about the future and about the impact these programs will continue to have.鈥�

Climbing the Leaderboard

麻豆原创鈥檚 GaIM improved two spots from last year to its highest ranking, rising to No. 3 in the world and continues to hold the title of the No. 1 program in the South.

The bachelor鈥檚 in digital media with a track in game degree design blends theory and practice with a sharp focus on industry readiness. The program stands out as one of the few programs that combine a strong emphasis on both art and technology.

Students develop skills in programming, game design, game programming, as well as 2D and 3D art and visual effects.

The GaIM Maker Space lab, located on the 麻豆原创 Downtown campus, reflects that commitment in concrete terms: nearly $500,000 in mixed-reality technology including augmented and virtual reality, motion capture, physical computing, 3D printing, and web and mobile development equipment, alongside dedicated research space for applied work.

The impact on the quality of the students鈥� education and training is undeniable.

鈥淭he tools the maker space provides are integrated deeply into virtually every class in GaIM,鈥� Smith says. 鈥淪tudents in early classes are printing board games and 3D printing game pieces, seniors are recording audio and motion capture sequences that are integrated directly into their capstone projects.鈥�

The Rankings鈥� Methodology

The Princeton Review and PC Gamer鈥檚 game design school rankings are based on more than 40 data points derived from the company鈥檚 survey of administrators at 150 schools offering game design courses and/or degrees. Most of the institutions are in the U.S., with two in Canada and four abroad. The 50-question survey covered four areas: academics, faculty, technology and career topics.

With its numerous industries to sustain a career and vibrant culture to build a life, Orlando isn鈥檛 a hard sell. Still, when it comes to promoting all this city has to offer, you鈥檇 be hard pressed to find someone who loves it more than Andrea (Rodrigues) Sage 鈥�12.

The advertising-public relations grad spent the last decade in various sales-related positions with the Tampa Bay Rays, Orlando Magic and insulated beverageware company Corkcicle (headquartered in Orlando).

That experience along with the leadership and life skills she developed at 麻豆原创 and her beloved hobby as the mastermind behind 鈥� an immensely popular social media account that explores new activities, restaurants and happenings in Central Florida 鈥� gave her what she needed to land her dream gig as marketing manager for Visit Orlando.

鈥淚 get to marry my love for this community and something I鈥檓 passionate about doing 鈥� marketing this city. It鈥檚 perfect for me,鈥� Sage says. 鈥淭o find this opportunity with Visit Orlando, it truly has been a dream come true.鈥�

Tourism Shapes Orlando

Sage鈥檚 mission in her role at Visit Orlando as a marketing manager, specializing in domestic tourism, is to bring visitation to the destination, period.

Orlando is the most visited destination in the U.S. bringing more than 75 million visitors. According to Visit Orlando, tourism supports 37% of all jobs in the region.

Central Florida鈥檚 tourism industry generated an economic impact of $94.5 billion in 2024, a 2.2% increase over the previous year, according to a study by Tourism Economics, a division of Oxford Economics and a leader in industry research.

As 2025 numbers work on being finalized, all signs point to the continued momentum of the region鈥檚 tourism.

It鈥檚 not hard to see why Orlando is in demand:

• Standard-setting theme parks
• Marquee sporting events 鈥� earning Orlando the No. 1 spot for Sports Event Cities in the U.S., according to Sport Business Journal
• Vibrant arts scene
• Top-of-the-line hotels and resorts
• 58 Michelin-recognized restaurants
• Proximity to beautiful beaches and Port Canaveral鈥檚 cruise ships

Sage gives a glimpse into what goes into helping shape Orlando鈥檚 reputation as one of the world鈥檚 most desirable destinations.

Advertising All of Orlando

Sage鈥檚 role with Visit Orlando oversees many facets. She might be placing a billboard in Baltimore, a well-timed ad on a streaming platform, or organize a tropical oasis in the middle of New York City on a 30-degree Fahrenheit day, enticing winter-weary New Yorkers to plan their next vacation.

She recently spent a week overseeing the production of an eco-tourism campaign video shoot at several locations to highlight the area鈥檚 natural beauty, hiking and springs.

鈥淐ulinary, arts, theme parks, nature, cultural experiences, whatever your travel bug is, this destination brings it all.鈥� 鈥� Andrea (Rodrigues) Sage 鈥�12

鈥淎dults with kids, adults without kids, this vacation has all your needs 鈥� culinary, arts, theme parks, nature, cultural experiences, whatever your travel bug is, this destination brings it all,鈥� Sage says.

Competing on the Global Stage

Orlando鈥檚 prime competitors in the tourism market depends on who you鈥檙e talking to.

It could be California (theme parks), Las Vegas (conferences), or Spain and Italy (international visitation). As cruise lines have come roaring back after the pandemic, the Caribbean is now in the mix, too. Orlando doesn鈥檛 just compete with other cities for tourists, but entire states and countries.

鈥淥ur destination is amazing, but every Jan. 1 the visitor tally resets, and there is a lot of work happening behind the scenes to make sure we remain top of mind,鈥� Sage says.

Success Fueled by 麻豆原创

A St. Petersburg, Florida, native, Rodrigues was recruited to 麻豆原创 to play for the women鈥檚 soccer team. From 2008-12, she helped lead the Knights to five NCAA postseason appearances, including the 2011 Elite 8, three conference championships and one of the program鈥檚 highest national rankings (No. 6) in school history.

During her collegiate career, she also joined the Portuguese National Team, which exposed her to places and cultures that would ultimately spark her interests in travel and exploration today.

As an elite scholar-athlete, she points to the intangible soft skills she gained 鈥� work ethic, goal-setting, communication, collaboration and time management all at an elevated standard of excellence 鈥� as formative to her life as a working parent.

鈥淏eing a 麻豆原创 student-athlete has made who I am.鈥�

鈥淏eing a 麻豆原创 student-athlete has made who I am,鈥� Sage says. 鈥淚 take interviews today as a 36-year-old and still talk about how it has positively shaped me. I would go from a 6 a.m. strength training to study hall to three classes to practice to a night class, still have homework and study and then travel to a road game the next day.

鈥淭he controlled chaos I lived in then, it is innate in me and still my normal today. I have two little kids, I鈥檓 married, I have a full-time job, I work out every day, I have a hobby. It just feels right. It is a controlled chaotic environment that I love.鈥�

Living Where the World Vacations

Rodrigues says what she appreciates most about living in Orlando is getting to explore new places in her own backyard. She started @cheatdayorlando in 2021 after becoming a mother. Since then, she has grown the account to nearly 100,000 followers and landed a regular gig on the 106.7 FM morning show Johnny鈥檚 House spreading the word about new experiences in the area.

鈥淚t doesn鈥檛 feel like you鈥檙e stagnant in Orlando 鈥� you can have a different experience just 10 minutes away,鈥� she says. 鈥淚 love that there鈥檚 something for everyone to feel like home because we have a melting pot of culture.鈥�

Spring Break Scene

Whether you鈥檙e a local enjoying a staycation or coming to Orlando for your Spring Break, Rodrigues shares her pro tips on some new experiences worth checking out:

• ICON Park will soon feature Ripley鈥檚 Crazy Golf, a glow-in-the-dark immersive indoor miniature golf course with many unconventional ways to putt.
• Harlow Grove Restaurant and Lounge, a new trendy restaurant in Winter Garden, opened this month and features a rooftop terrace and elevated menu.
• Maitland鈥檚 Enzian Theater is a single-screen independent cinema cafe that offers cozy, vintage decor and seating, with a full kitchen menu. For the parents out there with little Spring Breakers, consider the theater鈥檚 Peanut Butter Matinee Family Film Series, which offers free admission to kids 12 and under. Cars 2 will be featured at noon on March 22.

Over the past eight years, the awards have supported a wide range of projects across the arts, health, humanities and technology, reflecting the breadth of interdisciplinary work at 麻豆原创 and the program鈥檚 commitment to addressing real-world needs through creative research and community partnership.

Each winning team will receive $25,000 to support projects that meaningfully integrate technology, demonstrate potential for sustainability and measure outcomes using a logic model framework. This year鈥檚 theme, 鈥淭ech for the Human Good,鈥� emphasizes the power of arts, humanities, health and technology to create positive societal impact.

To qualify, teams must include at least one member from the College of Arts and Humanities, another 麻豆原创 unit and a community partner. Submissions are evaluated on potential impact, sustainability and measurable outcomes.

Founded in 2018 by Chuck Steinmetz and Margery Pabst Steinmetz, the awards debuted as the Pabst Steinmetz Arts and Innovation Awards, becoming the first project supported by the couple鈥檚 joint foundation. Originally created to ignite research initiatives focused on arts and wellness, the scope of the awards has since broadened. Margery Pabst Steinmetz says the awards have the potential to drive innovation and lasting impact for both campus and community.

鈥淭his year鈥檚 applicant pool was especially strong and highly accomplished,鈥� Margery Pabst Steinmetz says. 鈥淥ver the last year, we made some changes to the award so more researchers and nonprofits could see how it applies to their work, but the mission remains the same: champion and grow interdisciplinary research that will have a lasting impact on our community and beyond.鈥�

Learn more about the winning projects.

Limbitless Adaptive Sports League: Power Soccer

This project, led by Matt Dombrowski鈥�05 鈥�08MFA, professor of emerging media in the , in collaboration with Peter Smith 鈥�05MS 鈥�12PhD, associate professor in the , aims to develop a multiplayer adaptive sports video game for individuals who use power wheelchairs.

In partnership with 麻豆原创-based nonprofit Limbitless Solutions, the Mayo Clinic, Central Florida Dreamplex and Orlando Magic Dreamers, the project transforms competitive adaptive sports like power soccer 鈥� a sport specifically designed for individuals who use power wheelchairs 鈥� into an accessible virtual gaming experience.

The game uses an electromyographic controller to translate muscle movements into game commands, allowing players to compete while building skills that support independence, collaboration and social engagement.

鈥淭he project empowers wheelchair athletes by giving them a platform to compete, connect and develop skills in ways that weren鈥檛 previously possible,鈥� Dombrowski says. “This award is deeply meaningful to me and to everyone at Limbitless, and we are sincerely grateful to the [Pabst Steinmetz Foundation] for recognizing and supporting this work.鈥�

Dombrowski says his inspiration comes from former students, neighbors and colleagues who live or have lived with degenerative conditions. He and Peter Smith recently lost a respected research collaborator who profoundly shaped the project and inspired the game’s development. The collaborator introduced them to the world of power soccer, and the team proudly dedicates the effort to his memory.

“This project is special because it … supports undergraduate student creatives, brings athletes of all abilities into true partnership, and provides training and independence …” 鈥� Matt Dombrowski鈥�05 鈥�08MFA, 麻豆原创 professor

鈥淭his project is special because it serves multiple communities at once. It supports undergraduate student creatives, brings athletes of all abilities into true partnership, and provides training and independence through Project Xavier, our hands-free power wheelchair control system,鈥� Dombrowski says. 鈥淎t its core, this work is about access, dignity and joy. Gaming and sport should be for everyone, across all abilities. No one should ever have to lose access to something they love.鈥�

The initiative will host an annual eSports tournament, establish a scalable framework for adaptive sports games and provide professional development opportunities for interdisciplinary 麻豆原创 students. Anticipated outcomes include increased social connection, physical activity engagement and overall well-being for participants, while advancing inclusive game design.

Collaborators:

• Paulette Belser, Orlando Magic Dreamers
• Matthew Dombrowski 鈥�05 鈥�08MFA, College of Arts and Humanities
• Cameron Gomes 鈥�08, Central Florida Dreamplex
• Albert Manero 鈥�12 鈥�14MS 鈥�16PhD, Limbitless Solutions
• Bj枚rn Oskarsson, ALS Center of Excellence at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
• Peter Smith 鈥�05MS 鈥�12PhD, Nicholson School of Communication and Media, College of Sciences
• John Sparkman 鈥�13 鈥�15MS, Limbitless Solutions

More information about the project can be found .

Designing for Resilience: Integrating Art and Wearable Technology for Firefighter Health, Safety and Well-Being

Led by Kaitlyn Crawford, associate professor of materials science and engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, in collaboration with Ashley Taylor 鈥�12, assistant professor of emerging media and graphic design in the School of Visual Arts and Design, this project partners with the Sanford Fire Department to design wearable technology that monitors firefighter heat stress while incorporating artistic design and educational components.

The team is integrating wearable sensors 鈥� developed in collaboration with Northwestern University 鈥� that track physiological indicators to detect heat stress. Custom graphic design elements and informational infographics will be incorporated to encourage adoption within the fire service. A design feedback loop with the local fire service in Sanford ensures the wearable designs align with firefighter culture and identity, promoting usability and long-term adoption.

“Through [the Pabst Steinmetz Foundation’s] support, we will be able to collaborate across disciplines to create critical technological advances … that result in positive societal impact.” 鈥� Kaitlyn Crawford, 麻豆原创 associate professor

鈥淭he goal is to improve firefighter health and safety while respecting traditions and creating tools they鈥檙e excited to use,鈥� Crawford says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 an incredible honor to engage with our fire service community in this meaningful way. We are sincerely grateful to the [Pabst Steinmetz Foundation] for supporting this work. Through this support, we will be able to collaborate across disciplines to create critical technological advances and meaningful connections with the community that result in positive societal impact.鈥�

The award will allow the team to scale the project across multiple regions and provide hands-on professional development opportunities for 麻豆原创 students in design, engineering and research. By helping prevent cardiac events and other heat-related health risks, the initiative addresses an urgent community need while modeling how art, engineering and public service can intersect to improve lives.

An infographic illustrating the wearable device and project logic model is available .

Collaborators:

• Carter Clingan, a materials science and engineering undergraduate student at 麻豆原创
• Kaitlyn Crawford, College of Engineering and Computer Science
• David Giordano, a biomedical engineering graduate student at 麻豆原创
• Ronnie McNeil Jr., Sanford Fire Department
• Ashley Taylor 鈥�12, College of Arts and Humanities
• Studio Pegasus students, College of Arts and Humanities

From the rush of a rocket launch to the thrill of catching a wave to the joy of exploring natural and wild spaces 鈥� all only a 45-minute drive from Orlando 鈥� Cranis and his team have been a driving force behind the revival of Florida鈥檚 Space Coast as a premium, sought-out destination.

In recognition for the strides the area has made since he took his leadership role in 2019, Florida Trend recently named him among the state鈥檚 500 Most Influential People, and Space Coast Daily chose him the Person of the Year for 2025. But for Cranis, these accolades aren鈥檛 a product of one person鈥檚 merits.

鈥淭he awards mean I鈥檝e hired the right people and allowed them to do what they do best,鈥� he says.

The two-time communications alum and Nicholson School of Communication and Media Hall of Famer also served as an adjunct professor in both Nicholson and the Rosen College of Hospitality Management.

Here he shares his experiences and knowledge.

On the growing popularity of The Space Coast:

Our tourist development tax (TDT) hit a record $26 million in 2025 鈥� up $10 million since 2019. I can鈥檛 deny we have things here that no one else has 鈥� to the north, we can watch space launches and cruise ships heading out. If I want to clear my head at lunchtime, I can go across the street to put my toes in the sand or walk around a maritime hammock. But attracting tourists isn鈥檛 easy 鈥� even for a bucket-list destination along 70 miles of beaches.

On getting creative to address challenges:

Competition is our biggest challenge. People can visit beaches all around the state, from the Keys to Jacksonville and around the Gulf Coast to the Panhandle. Keep in mind the marketing budgets in larger destinations can be 10x higher than ours. So, everything we do has to be effective in engaging travelers.

On the different eras of 鈥渢he Space Coast鈥�:

The term 鈥淪pace Coast鈥� isn鈥檛 new. For years, people associated it with the Apollo era, back when visitors would come in hopes of meeting an astronaut. As the shuttle program wound down, there were assumptions that everything here would shut down with it. That became another big challenge: educating travelers that we鈥檝e modernized with really nice hotels and we鈥檝e moved into a new phase.

鈥淣o other destination has an active space center and miles of world-class beaches.鈥�

On reviving 鈥渢he Space Coast鈥�:

The first thing I wanted us to figure out when I started in 2019 was this: How do we excite potential visitors again? We decided to lean back into 鈥淪pace Coast鈥� because those words say it all. No other destination has an active space center and miles of world-class beaches. So, we positioned that message with specific locations 鈥� 鈥淢elbourne on Florida鈥檚 Space Coast鈥� or 鈥淭itusville on Florida鈥檚 Space Coast.鈥� It鈥檚 a natural jumpstart into our exclusive story. And now, with SpaceX and Blue Origin, we have as many as 10 launches a month. What had become old is new again 鈥� only better.

On lessons learned in boosting your brand:

I worked 16 years with Visit Orlando, and we spent a lot of energy trying to brand Orlando apart from the theme parks. It took until probably 2012 until travelers globally really knew Orlando. That鈥檚 the nature of marketing. Be patient. When you think about it, 麻豆原创 followed a similar trajectory to national recognition.

On the unforgettable lesson he learned as a 麻豆原创 student:

I was a journalism guy, the sports editor of 麻豆原创鈥檚 student newspaper, The Central Florida Future. I鈥檇 call people and say, 鈥淭his is Peter from The Future,鈥� which immediately got their attention. One class, organizational communication, gave me a look into the real world of business. For a group project, we went to a company to ask leaders and employees, separately, about communication. The employees said communication wasn鈥檛 so great. The leaders said it was fine. In fact, they shut down our presentation. I鈥檝e applied that lesson to my own work 鈥� encourage communication and listen with an open mind.

On the (hopefully) lasting lesson he shared as a 麻豆原创 adjunct professor:

I鈥檇 tell students to use their voices. Don鈥檛 be passive. During my career in tourism, I鈥檝e learned a lot from young graduates and interns. Your thoughts matter. Also, learn everything possible about business in school. Some of it might seem irrelevant, but you never know when that knowledge will benefit you. Look at me.

On his job being very, very personal:

When I was 14 our family moved from Connecticut to Melbourne, Florida. I spent a lot of time at the places we鈥檙e talking about now 鈥� the beach, Merrit Island National Wildlife Refuge, Lori Wilson Park. When the opportunity came up to return and live near my mom who鈥檇 been in the same house all those years, it was emotional for me. I never thought I鈥檇 have a business life along the Space Coast, but 鈥� divine intervention. It鈥檚 another reason I鈥檓 in awe every day, and why I want as many people as possible to come and be awed, too. Once you鈥檝e experienced this, you鈥檒l be back.

The 麻豆原创-based nonprofit celebrated 10 years of developing and creating pediatric prostheses in 2024 and is also renowned for its complementary advancements in gamified training that empower patients to master their accessible medical technologies.

Limbitless researchers recently published two new studies aimed at improving training games. One, published in , explores how machine learning may streamline level design for bionic arm training games. The other, a playtest study published in , evaluates the efficacy of a new training game to assist patients with severely limited mobility who use an eye-tracking wheelchair.

Together these two studies exemplify Limbitless鈥� continued commitment to ensuring patients feel connected to the new technologies they receive, gain confidence in overcoming their conditions and ultimately transform their lives.

鈥淭hese听games are now fully integrated into the Limbitless experience,鈥� says Peter Smith听鈥�05MS 鈥�12PhD, Limbitless鈥� head of game development and training, associate professor and director of the games and interactive media program within the Nicholson School of Communication and Media. 鈥淭he kids get the games first to learn to use and strengthen muscles they may not have needed to use before. The goal is to have the kids practice and learn in the games, and have all their failures in the games so that when they get their arms, they are immediately successful.鈥�

The researchers at Limbitless aim to give patients comprehensive care. It isn鈥檛 enough to provide a bionic arm, nor is it enough to make a game that鈥檚 just fun but lacking in training, says Limbitless Creative Director Matt Dombrowski 鈥�05 鈥�08MFA.

鈥淟imbitless is more than technology, games or picking things up 鈥� it鈥檚 about giving children with limb differences agency,鈥� says Dombrowski, who鈥檚 also a professor at 麻豆原创鈥檚 School of Visual Arts and Design (SVAD). 鈥淭he training games are designed to be the first step on that journey to build trust, excitement and self-belief through play. Embedding this development inside SVAD and Nicholson, with guidance from Peter and I, we ensure the work stays grounded in both creative innovation and research-backed methodology.鈥�

鈥淭he training games are designed to be the first step on that journey to build trust, excitement and self-belief through play.” 鈥� 麻豆原创 Professor and Limbitless Creative Director Matt Dombrowski 鈥�05 鈥�08MFA.

The idea of using immersive gamified training was conceived early on, says Albert Manero 鈥�12 鈥�14MS 鈥�16PhD, executive director and co-founder of Limbitless Solutions.

鈥淥ne of our colleagues here at Limbitless reached out to some of the faculty at SVAD and asked them if they could help create some of the cosmetic components of the prosthetic limbs,鈥� Manero says. 鈥淥ne of those faculty members countered with, 鈥楬ave you ever considered making video games around these arms?鈥櫶� Ever since then, it’s just kind of snowballed into what we have here today, which is being able to improve the quality of the training and the onboarding for our patients, whether those are with the bionic arms or the face gesture-controlled wheelchair.鈥�

The Journey Forward

Limbitless鈥� Project Xavier is a specialized wheelchair that uses the same electromyographic (EMG) technology used in the bionic arms to power an electric wheelchair completely hands-free. It works by using a sensor placed on a person鈥檚 temple to detect subtle facial movements and translate them into directional control.

The wheelchair is designed to help people with limited mobility, such as those with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), regain autonomy and use some of the muscles that are the last to lose function as the condition progresses.

Their recently published research explores how a training game called Limbitless Journey can help determine muscle strength, assess user comfort with using the wheelchair and examine the potential for integrating eye-tracking technology.

鈥淲e want to make that experience the lowest stress possible and the most beneficial as possible for wheelchair users,鈥� Manero says. 鈥淭his research paper really looks at that usability evaluation and helping be able to understand how humans interact with machines and simulations … 听to better improve dexterity and mobility control.鈥�

Manero says he saw a need for a specialized wheelchair that can adapt to its users as their body changes over time. 听Recognizing that this technology may seem complex and potentially intimidating, Limbitless was inspired to go one step further and develop a training game to accompany Project Xavier.

鈥淭he wheelchair project came about from a friend who was using a powered wheelchair. 听We really learned [that] for [people with] neuromuscular disorders, there can come a point when their hand is just not sufficient to be able to control their wheelchair,鈥� Manero says. 鈥淎s we learned more and more about the experience for those patients, we realized that there is a real need for hands-free wheelchair technology.鈥�

Evaluating how people use the training game to learn how to use their wheelchair was the key takeaway from the study. Participants in the study praised the level of design and provided suggestions, stating that eye-tracking technology could be improved. The researchers also concluded that objective-based minigames within the game may be implemented.

With this feedback, the Limbitless team members say they are hopeful that the training can reach its full potential.

鈥淭his research paper really looks at that usability evaluation and helping be able to understand how humans interact with machines and simulations … 听to better improve dexterity and mobility control.鈥� 鈥� Albert Manero 鈥�12 鈥�14MS 鈥�16PhD, executive director and co-founder of Limbitless Solutions.

鈥淲e started working with a clinical trial with the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. In that trial we found that people were nervous to learn how to use the chair,鈥� Smith says. 鈥淪o we started building this game that would allow them to practice before getting put into that experience.鈥�

The game鈥檚 eye-tracking technology works by using an infrared camera across from the user to detect eye movement and translate it to the user interface. The user can 鈥渟elect鈥� an option by maintaining eye contact with a specific point on the screen for a duration of time.

Receiving steady gameplay input from testers is crucial to designing a training game that is both intuitive and enjoyable, Smith says.

鈥�I think that the key for any kind of training game is to make sure that you’re focusing on the learning objective or the training outcome that you want,鈥� he says.

Navigating through feedback and customizing the experience for all levels of users is something that Dombrowski says he bears in mind when developing training games.

鈥淚t鈥檚 really about understanding [that] our audience is ever-changing and each person is going to be completely different,鈥� he says. 鈥淥ur big goal is to make this scalable, to have experiences that are peaceful, slow and calm, and then also have experiences that maybe ramp that up a little bit more.鈥�

The team is encouraged by the valuable input the testers provided and are excited to keep the project rolling, Dombrowski says.

Training Together with Machine Learning Agent PAUL

Limbitless has been using gamified training to help pediatric patients feel empowered when receiving and using their arms.

Their latest research on training games takes their concept further and explores the efficacy of machine learning to reduce user frustrations and streamline game development.

鈥淭he study helped us build on the testing and validation of the level design, which supports improving听the testing,鈥� Manero says. 鈥淚t also helps our team to accelerate the design phase so that we can have the games in use by our bionic kids.听Building on the use of machine learning will enable us to make training games that support faster and more robust learning, while we work to have them be as much fun as possible for bionic kids.鈥�

For this work, a machine learning agent dubbed 鈥淧AUL鈥� (Program for Autonomous Unity Learning) was integrated into an endless runner game called听Limbitless Runner,听which contains obstacles and power-ups that the user must avoid or collect. Past work with听Limbitless Runner听proved effective in training muscles with an EMG game controller to prepare users for bionic arms.

The researchers concluded PAUL can determine the feasibility of gameplay. The machine learning agent allowed the team to refine the design process, provided an artificial intelligence (AI) player to race against in the game, and offered comparisons in optimizing and evaluating user progress.

The researchers say they envision future work focusing on using machine learning to reduce potential frustrations by recognizing imperfect reactions and much more.

鈥淲e envision a future where all these types of AI can exist in our training games and support the bionic kids in using their prosthetics,鈥� Smith says.听鈥淕oing forward, we will likely use more machine learning agents for verification and possibly for non-player characters, but we are also interested in other AI applications.鈥�

Dombrowski says he believes machine learning can expand access and even customize the experience for patients.

鈥淭his holds exciting potential for helping us fine-tune training protocols,鈥� he says. 鈥淲e can identify patterns and make data-informed adjustments to how difficulty is scaled or how muscle control challenges are presented. Eventually, [AI] could even support automatic personalization for each child based on their learning capability and progress, ensuring that training meets them where they are.鈥�

Gamified training also provides an exceptional opportunity to study how children may interact with their bionic arms in ways that are distinct from a lab setting. This gives researchers a fuller perspective, Dombrowski says.

鈥淕ames provide immediate feedback, narrative immersion, and, perhaps most importantly, a space where failure is expected and retrying is encouraged,鈥� he says. 鈥淭his mindset shift is critical because if a prosthesis doesn鈥檛 work perfectly right away, it can negatively affect a child鈥檚 willingness to continue using it.鈥�

鈥淲e envision a future where all these types of AI can exist in our training games and support the bionic kids in using their prosthetics.鈥� 鈥� Peter Smith听鈥�05MS 鈥�12PhD, Limbitless鈥� head of game development and training.

By blending machine learning with nearly a decade of existing gamified training knowledge, the goal of training games like Limbitless Runner is to take a proactive approach by helping patients build confidence, Dombrowski says.

鈥淗elping children hone their muscle control in game environments gives them the foundation to succeed once they transition to the real prosthetic,鈥� he says. 鈥淥ver time, they progress from simply making a basic flex to using different levels of muscle engagement to trigger multiple gestures and controls, creating an intuitive pathway from gameplay to real-world usage.鈥�

Gamified training is deeply integrated into the Limbitless experience 鈥� from researcher to patient 鈥� so the opportunity to continue building on proven concepts is exciting, Manero says.

鈥淲e are still working to prove the improvements from the training, but we have seen the impact anecdotally,鈥� he says. 鈥淭he gamified training is a key component of our clinical trials, with each arm being accompanied by a training video game system. Our study revealed some unintended responses to design decisions and gave our team a great opportunity to strengthen our design and testing.鈥�

A Full Body of Work: Where Art Meets Engineering

Interdisciplinary collaboration is a hallmark of 麻豆原创鈥檚 research enterprise. The convergence of art, engineering and game design is a critical component of Limbitless鈥� success, and it helps give students engaged in the nonprofit鈥檚 research a fuller experience, Manero says.

鈥淚 think one of the most exciting parts about Limbitless is seeing how our student researchers can go from video games to engineering to the clinical sciences, and translate that to our patient group,鈥� he says. 鈥淚t’s a special environment to watch artists, game designers, engineers, and premedical students all sit together and work on a project. And that seems to be unique to 麻豆原创 and Limbitless Solutions.鈥�

Seniors Delaney Gunnell and Maanya Pradeep, who are both majoring in biotechnology and biomedical sciences, respectively, say that their experience working on the eye-tracking wheelchair paper has enriched their exposure to undergraduate research and accelerated their exposure to collaboration across disciplines.

鈥淭his has been a great learning process,鈥� Gunnell says. 鈥淚 gained a ton of experience, and now I鈥檓 able to use the skills we learned together for coding and analysis to help other scholars here with their projects.鈥�

Being immersed in the research and interfacing with colleagues allowed Gunnell and Pradeep to quickly develop a leadership role amongst their peers and prepare for careers after graduation.

鈥淚 think something that鈥檚 really valuable for me was the manuscript writing and the technical skills associated with that,鈥� Pradeep says. 鈥淲e鈥檝e been helping other scholars here get into writing their own manuscripts, and that鈥檚 been a key takeaway. I鈥檓 also applying for medical school right now, and so conducting research at Limbitless [has] helped open my eyes to how accessible technology should be designed. As a future physician, it gives me an idea of the patient care aspect of the research process.鈥�

Almost nine years ago, Smith and Dombrowski joined Limbitless and began guiding the next generation of creators by giving them practical education in developing training games.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a unique academic pipeline that turns classroom learning into real-world, impactful experiences that advance the research and give students tangible outcomes and a deep sense of purpose,鈥� he says. 鈥淐ross collaboration and ensuring that everyone plays a vital role is really what 麻豆原创 is all about, and the positive of it all is [that] we鈥檙e helping people.”

Limbitless Co-founder and Director of Research and Development John Sparkman 鈥�13 鈥�15MS, along with Program Support Specialist Viviana Rivera 鈥�23 鈥�24MS also contributed to both research projects. Pradeep and undergraduate student researcher Eric Gass 鈥�24 contributed to the prosthesis research.

Limbitless Solutions鈥� gamified training research is supported by funding through their Unity for Humanity initiative, the Epic Games MegaGrant program and the Pabst Steinmetz Foundation.

Researchers鈥� Credentials:

Dombrowski is a professor in 麻豆原创鈥檚 School of Visual Arts and Design, where he combines creative leadership with a commitment to innovation and social impact. As the creative director of Limbitless Solutions, he leads interdisciplinary teams that develop expressive 3D-printed bionic arms, immersive training video games and inclusive digital experiences for children with limb differences. Dombrowski鈥檚 work blends digital art, immersive technology and accessibility-driven design. His projects have been featured by Adobe, Unity, Epic Games, Autodesk, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Game Developers Conference, SXSW EDU and the Gates Foundation. He has helped secure major support through initiatives like Unity for Humanity, the Epic MegaGrant, and national clinical partnerships. A nationally recognized educator, Dombrowski has received numerous teaching honors from 麻豆原创, including the University Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching award and the Chuck D. Dziuban Award for Online Teaching. He is a four-time recipient of the CAH Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching award and was named an Adobe Creative Campus Innovator and Adobe Education Leader. Through his teaching, research and creative practice, Dombrowski inspires students to harness visual storytelling and design thinking to drive positive change, expanding what鈥檚 possible when the arts intersect with science, healthcare and technology.

Manero is the executive director and co-founder of Limbitless Solutions. He received his doctoral degree in mechanical engineering and his master鈥檚 and bachelor鈥檚 degrees in aerospace engineering from 麻豆原创.

Manero also holds courtesy research appointments in 麻豆原创鈥檚 mechanical and aerospace engineering department within the College of Engineering and Computer Science, graduate faculty scholar appointments from the College of Graduate Studies and the College of Engineering and Computer Science, and a research appointment in Mayo Clinic鈥檚 neurology department. He鈥檚 also a member of 麻豆原创鈥檚 Biionix faculty cluster initiative.

Smith is an associate professor and associate director of 麻豆原创鈥檚 Digital Media: Games and Interactive Media program. His research focuses on games for health, rehabilitation, education and alternative controllers. Smith has developed and contributed to a wide range of funded and creative games, and he is the lead for game development and training at Limbitless Solutions. His work spans virtual reality post-traumatic stress disorder therapy systems, health and rehabilitation games, educational games and experimental control games. These projects have been exhibited internationally and have received awards such as Alt.Ctrl.GDC Finalist, Most Innovative Game at I/ITSEC. He has served as principal investigator or co-principal investigator on projects funded by sources such as the U.S. State Department, the U.S. National Science Foundation, Unity 3D, Disney, Epic Games and the Pabst Steinmetz Foundation.

Castillo was only one of 40 students selected from more than 4,000 applicants for the . Interns from various academic backgrounds in the program are placed with teams and departments that stretch across the NASCAR industry, including 23XI Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Daytona International Speedway and more.

鈥淚t absolutely means the world to me to be chosen out of 4,000 applicants,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 truly incredible to work alongside professionals and see the reality of what it鈥檚 like to actually be working in this exciting industry.鈥�

Castillo鈥檚 role within the content team gives her insight into the digital side of motorsports, where she helps the brand connect with new and existing fans.

鈥淢y department specifically works with influencers, inviting them to a track to spread awareness and create content that shares the love of the sport,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been a great experience connecting and working with these influencers.鈥�

Having this internship opened new doors for Castillo and provided her with the opportunity to travel to Chicago and see her work come to life.

鈥淭raveling to Chicago for the first time and having the chance to work alongside talented professionals and help grow the sport through influencer outreach is fulfilling to see,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t showed me how hard work pays off.鈥�

Castillo says she鈥檚 always been a fan of motorsports, which encouraged her to apply when she made connections in the industry though 麻豆原创 student organizations and opportunities such as the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) and NSCM鈥檚 Intern Pursuit.

鈥淥ne of the people I met through networking opportunities on campus works in communications for NASCAR in Daytona,鈥� Catillo says. 鈥淚 connected with her to learn how to start in the industry. She was kind enough to share information about the NASCAR Next Internship Program.鈥�

As a first-generation college student, Castillo says her goals have been shaped by the hard work and devotedness she grew up surrounded by.

鈥淢y parents were very young when they moved to the United States and seeing their dedication has always inspired me to earn a degree,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 so important to provide a space for communities to share their voice and be heard 鈥� and journalism has helped provide that pathway for me.鈥�

Castillo says she credits networking events and 麻豆原创鈥檚 student organizations for this incredible opportunity.

“If I didn鈥檛 go to these networking events or if I wasn鈥檛 part of student organizations here at 麻豆原创, I wouldn鈥檛 have made those important connections or even know that this internship exists,鈥� she says.

As an engaged journalism student, Castillo shares that she has earned priceless professional experience in many areas of media, including NPR鈥檚 Are We There Yet? podcast, reporting on 麻豆原创 Athletics with ESPN+, partaking in Spanish spoken news broadcasts with NAHJ, and contributing to , 麻豆原创鈥檚 student-run news organization.

鈥淭he journalism program does a fantastic job in helping students connect with professionals,鈥� she says. 鈥淭hose opportunities really prepared me for the real world and taught me how to communicate effectively, meet deadlines, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.鈥�

Professor and Associate Director of the Film and Mass Media program Lisa Mills is hoping for a win for the students and shares that this historic recognition speaks to the talent and creative vision of 麻豆原创鈥檚 filmmakers on a national level.

鈥淎s the quality of our students continues to increase and our film program grows, so does our national reputation as an outstanding film degree program.鈥�

Mills says the intersection of technology and creativity plays a vital role in filmmaking, which is highlighted in 麻豆原创鈥檚 innovation driven film program.

鈥淔ilmmaking is a technology-based art at its foundation,鈥� Mills says. 鈥淎s 麻豆原创 frames itself as a technology leader, film students show us how technology combined with creativity evokes emotion and brings ideas to the screen.鈥�

Acquiring hands-on experience and working with industry standard technology, such as high-definition cameras and editing software, is a central part of 麻豆原创鈥檚 film program, and this unique competition provides that opportunity for students. Coca-Cola Refreshing Films Program Manager and Producer Katie Pryor says this program gives students a chance to showcase their skills with professional experience.

鈥淭he goal of this program is to give students a real-world experience creating content for a big brand,鈥� Pryor says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 meant to provide students with an opportunity to experience the commercial side of filmmaking and receive industry mentorship.鈥�

Pryor says that brands are in need of content and students need opportunities to further their experience, creating natural alignment with this program.

鈥淭his program has a profound impact by providing participants with the opportunity to create branded content while still in school and giving them access to high level equipment, including a RED Digital Cinema Camera, and a professional color session at Company 3 during postproduction,鈥� Pryor says. 鈥淚t not only empowers individuals to achieve their personal and professional goals but also contributes to the growth of the industry by fostering the next generation of talent.鈥�

Making it to the finals is a first-time experience for Knights, and Pryor emphasizes the creativity and unique vision that set 麻豆原创 apart from other entries.

鈥淭he 麻豆原创 students鈥� theme celebrated the real magic of going to the movies,鈥� she says. 鈥淭he script tapped into a very relatable idea that the movies can spark our imagination and allow us to dream. The idea of a person imagining a future for themself on a date being sparked by the movies was a unique take on the date night concept and something we hadn鈥檛 done before.鈥�

Pryor worked with film students Kenny 鈥淜.L.鈥� Sanon 鈥�24, who graduated in December 2024, and Grace Tompkins 鈥�24, a film alumna who is currently pursuing a bachelor鈥檚 in English at 麻豆原创, and says that working with them has shown the skills and experience they gained as Knights.

鈥淲e鈥檝e been very impressed with Kenny and Grace鈥檚 collaborative nature and their amazing crew of 麻豆原创 students and teachers,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been wonderful to see the support they鈥檝e received from faculty and their peers. The 麻豆原创 community has rallied to see this project succeed.鈥�

Tompkins鈥� journey to her directorial debut has been an unlikely one and represents the culmination of hard work and creativity.

鈥淢y love of movies started at a very young age. Growing up in the foster care system, I faced a lot of difficult moments, and during those times, books and films became my refuge,鈥� she says. “Movies made me feel seen, like I belonged somewhere, and that feeling stuck with me. Now, as a writer and director, I鈥檓 passionate about creating stories that can do the same for others. I believe storytelling has the power to comfort, inspire and transport us, and being able to create that kind of magic for someone else 鈥� that鈥檚 everything to me.鈥�

Tompkins, who worked as the director on set, wrote the script for 麻豆原创鈥檚 finalist entry, Screening Love, for Coca-Cola Refreshing Films. She shares that this opportunity is more to her than filling a role on set.

鈥淚 set out to write a story that could make people smile, something relatable and uplifting, and as a director, I had the chance to visualize how all our hopes and ideas could come together,鈥� Tompkins says. 鈥淚t wasn鈥檛 just about directing, it was about building a team, a family, and leading us toward a shared vision.鈥�

She shares that the team she helped build had a major impact on set and the final cut of the film.

鈥淥ur crew was mostly made up of 麻豆原创 film students, and we were lucky to have a few amazing professionals on set as well,鈥� Tompkins says. 鈥淜.L. and I put a lot of care into building the right team for our film, and I鈥檓 so proud of the work we all did. I walked away from this with lasting connections and a deep appreciation for collaborative filmmaking. It鈥檚 been an unforgettable experience.鈥�

Tompkins had previously submitted to the program and continued to do so for several years with the support of lecturer Bruce Wood, who served as the liaison from 麻豆原创.

鈥淚 read dozens of submissions each year. I thought her concept was original 鈥� I wasn’t the slightest bit surprised when it was chosen as a semi-finalist and eventually a finalist Wood says. “I am extremely proud of 麻豆原创 film’s success in this program 鈥� it鈥檚 a large, time-consuming project and while we are a bit of an underdog entry, this finalist recognition shows our strength against other longstanding film programs in the country.鈥�

K.L., who served as the producer on set, says that having a career in film has long been a dream of his.

鈥淪torytelling has always been at the core of who I am, but I didn鈥檛 initially pursue it because I was discouraged and guided toward a career that offered financial security,鈥� he says. 鈥淗owever, during the pandemic, I decided to pivot and take the risk of following my aspirations.鈥�

As a nontraditional student, K.L. shares how juggling his full-time job and Coca-Cola Refreshing Films was a struggle at times, but it also made him a stronger filmmaker.

鈥淏eing on set was a challenge. I came from working an eight-hour shift and jumped straight into a 12-hour production,鈥� K.L. says. 鈥淗owever, watching all the planning, organization, and logistics come together to bring the story to life, highlighted the power of collaboration and perseverance.鈥�

Looking back on this experience, K.L. says that blending both sides of his career made a considerable difference in how he was as a producer.

鈥淔or the longest time, I thought I had to keep my corporate and creative identities separate, but this program made me realize that I need both. This opportunity refined everything I knew about film production,鈥� he says. 鈥淢anaging a $20,000 budget, securing film insurance, executing effective marketing initiatives, handling contract releases and audits, and following operational practices have all given me the confidence to compete seriously and push my creative endeavors.鈥�

K.L. also emphasizes the significance of 麻豆原创鈥檚 selection for the program, highlighting what it means to Knights.

鈥淚nitially, I believed only larger film schools were selected for this program,鈥� he says. 鈥淪eeing 麻豆原创 chosen means a lot鈥攊t speaks to the creativity, hard work, and dedication of the talented 麻豆原创 students and staff.鈥�

Reflecting on what participating in this program means to her, Tompkins says the whole experience has been an excellent opportunity for her as she is already meeting the goals she envisioned for herself as a filmmaker.

鈥淐ollaborating with Coca-Cola for this opportunity has had an enormous impact on my professional film experience. To have my directorial debut tied to such an iconic global brand is surreal,鈥� she says. 鈥淓very filmmaker dreams of seeing their work on the big screen, and because of this partnership, and the support from theaters, I鈥檓 achieving that dream early in my career. It鈥檚 a milestone that has brought me to a new level, and I鈥檓 excited to keep building on that momentum in the future.鈥�

That momentum is something Mills says she sees as the future of 麻豆原创鈥檚 film program.

鈥淲e’re proud of all our film students,鈥� Mills says. 鈥淜.L. and Grace鈥檚 artistic vision and strong work ethic are intrinsic to students in our program. Making a high-quality film in a short amount of time with a small budget isn’t easy but these students embrace the challenge every day.鈥�

EA SPORTS College Football 25 returned July 19 after an 11-year hiatus. The simulation-style football game鈥檚 focus provides an authentic college football experience that is specific to each school, including 麻豆原创.

Game day elements that Knights fans are accustomed to are featured as part of College Football 25. Before kick-off, fans perform the signature U-C-F arm sign, while the team runs out the tunnel, running past the virtual Marching Knights playing 麻豆原创鈥檚 fight song, Charge On. When the ball is kicked off, the fans yell out 鈥淯-C-F Knights,鈥� just as they do in real life. For the first time, real-life players will also be featured in the game, further replicating a realistic experience for gamers. 麻豆原创鈥檚 reputation of being a leader in space research and education is showcased through an occasional in-game rocket launch, like the real-life SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch during a game against Kent State in Fall 2023.

Behind the scenes, dozens of 麻豆原创 alums, including 42 graduates of the university鈥檚 Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (FIEA), helped to create College Football 25. FIEA, the world鈥檚 top-ranked graduate video gaming school, is located at 麻豆原创 Downtown, across the street from EA Orlando and is a strong pipeline of talent to the game developer.

Torres, a digital media alum who earned a minor in marketing, is one example of the invaluable experience 麻豆原创 students can gain through internships. Last summer, she modeled and textured indoor and outdoor environmental assets based on real-life photographs taken at FBC Mortgage Stadium and Raymond James Stadium in Tampa for College Football 25 and the Madden NFL series.

Torres and her team used many tools, including LiDAR scanners to capture the lighting in the stadium. One scanner was placed in the middle of the stadium and scanned the entire facility, creating a 3D model. They also used individual scanners to capture models ranging from trash cans to cleats, which were then modified to the smallest detail. For example, a trash can in the stadium was scanned, then designers patched up any topology errors or holes, and added digital trash cans into the game.

Beyond scanning, the team took pictures of everything. Torres captured chairs at every angle, so artists were able to replicate them easily. She used a color palette, placing it next to the chairs, to help pinpoint the exact colors. Torres also worked with a pen-like scanner that identified the exact hex color of an object, adding further detail.

When scanning 3D objects, Torres says the main thing she tried to keep in mind was making sure the environment, whether it’s a prop or a whole scene, tells a story. An example of this was the first prop she created for EA, a coffee table for Madden NFL. The designers wanted the table to be around one or two years old, so she referenced her own coffee table that was around that age, mimicking details such as rings left from cold glasses and hot plates.

鈥淭hat’s something that you really need to have as an environment artist, you need that eye to tell a story of things as simple as a coffee table, that maybe most people won’t even notice,鈥� Torres says. 鈥淚 think that’s the main thing, and that’s something that I still follow today. And working on portfolio pieces now, just doing my very best to tell stories without there being text.鈥�

The lessons Torres has learned over her career come from a variety of places and mentors, such as EA SPORTS Environment Director Ingrid Aguero 鈥�07 鈥�08MS, a graduate of 麻豆原创鈥檚 FIEA program. As a student at 麻豆原创, the most useful information Torres says she learned was in the 3D modeling classes. Under the instruction of Nicholas Hunter 鈥�17 鈥�18MS, an instructor in and a FIEA alum, Torres gained knowledge on how to make assets that have good topology and UV mapping, which serves as a bridge between 2D textures and 3D objects. Torres also learned how to use Autodesk Maya, the industry standard program.

After being gone for over a decade, College Football 25 means many things to fans who have clamored for the game. For Torres, it鈥檚 a combination of her favorite things 鈥� Knight Nation, 麻豆原创 football and video games.

鈥淚t honestly doesn’t feel real, I have a piece of my work inside my alma mater, in a game that is making a comeback after 11 years,鈥� Torres says. 鈥淓veryone’s hyped, and it’s 鈥� really cool to see the game.鈥�

These athletes exemplify the spirit and dedication of Knight Nation. Watch the events on NBC or stream via Peacock as you cheer them on.

Samantha Bosco

Event dates: Sept. 4

Born with a born with a bowed tibia in her right leg, Samantha Bosco, began cycling with her dad at 7 years old. At 11, she underwent three years of surgeries to fix her leg-length discrepancy from the bowed tibia. The surgery to lengthen her right leg two and a half inches didn鈥檛 go as planned, eventually leaving her with permanent damage to her leg.

Unable to ride a bike after the surgeries, Bosco switched sports, going on to receive a full athletic scholarship with the Knights. From 2005-07, she rowed for two seasons in the V8, V4 and JV8 boats. However, the damage to her leg led to her retiring from the sport after her sophomore season.

An adapted bike allowed her to participate in road races. Two years after her return to her bike, she discovered paracycling. She found success in the sport, reaching her first world championship in 2013 before earning a pair of bronze medals at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Paralympic Games. In 2019, after discovering nerve damage and still competing at a high level, she was nominated for the Best Female Athlete with a Disability award at the ESPYs. Three days after being named to the Team USA roster for the 2021 Tokyo Games, Bosco suffered a traumatic brain injury and two skull fractures, forcing her out of the competition. In her return, she won every paracycling road race she entered in 2022, becoming a double world champion in Baie-Comeau, Canada in August of that year.

Kyle Coon 鈥�13

Event dates: Sept. 1-2

Coon, a communication alum, will compete in the Paralympic triathlon after secured his place by finishing third in the World Triathlon Para Series Montreal. His impressive performance in the race, which included a 760-meter swim, 20.2-kilometer bike, and 5-kilometer run, earning him the honor of representing Team USA in Paris.

He also represented Team USA in the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo, where he made his first Olympic appearance and placed fifth. A lifelong competitive athlete, Coon was a member of 麻豆原创鈥檚 Wrestling Club and a group exercise instructor for 麻豆原创鈥檚 Recreation and Wellness Center during his studies.

At 10 months old, Coon was diagnosed with bilateral sporadic retinoblastoma, the most common form of eye cancer for children. By the time he turned 7, both of his eyes had been surgically removed. Shortly after, Coon鈥檚 father introduced him to Erik Weihenmayer, a blind extreme athlete who inspired the young boy to continue to stay active.

Malacchi Esdale

Event dates: July 24, 25 and 27

Esdale, a former 麻豆原创 student, will compete in rugby for Team USA. After becoming a professional rugby player in 2017, he was appointed as a travel reserve for the 2020 Summer Olympics.

Esdale discovered rugby in by playing for the Naples Bears in Florida. After attending ASA College in New York and the University of Miami, he transferred to 麻豆原创, where he joined the Rugby Club 鈥� Men鈥檚 Team and honed his skills.

Sarai Linder

Event dates: July 25, 28 and 31; Aug. 3, 6, 9 and 10

Former 麻豆原创 women鈥檚 soccer defender Sarai Linder will represent her nation of Germany. She is one of three 麻豆原创 women鈥檚 soccer alums to compete at the Olympics, joining USA鈥檚 Michelle Akers 鈥�89 (1996 Atlanta) and Brazil鈥檚 Aline Reis 鈥�11 (2016 Rio).

Linder, spent the COVID-shortened 2020-21 campaign with the Knights, playing seven matches. She capped her season by earning First Team All-American Athletic Conference honors, All-AAC Rookie Team accolades, and 2020-21 AAC All-Academic Team honors.

Julie Poulsen 鈥�20

Event dates: July 28 and 30; Aug. 1

Poulsen will represent her home county of Denmark in the women鈥檚 four portion of rowing.

The 麻豆原创 communication alum began rowing at 10 when her mother took her to a local club. Poulsen is one of the most decorated 麻豆原创 rowers in program history. She is one of three Knights to be named a Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association (CRCA) All-American. She was named First Team All-American Athletic Conference three times (2018, 2019, 2021) and earned CRCA National Scholar Athlete and American Athletic Conference All-Academic honors in four straight years from 2018-21.

鈥淢y days at 麻豆原创 has taught me a lot of lessons, which has played a big part of who I am today,鈥� Poulsen says. 鈥淎n important lesson I learned at 麻豆原创 was to be less timid of challenges. We were often thrown big challenges we didn鈥檛 think we could overcome, but we always would. This has made me believe that there is no challenge that is too big, and it has made me so much more tough than I was before.鈥�

Viktorija Senkute 鈥�18

Event dates: July 27-Aug. 3

Senkute will compete for Team Lithuania in women鈥檚 single sculls for rowing.麻豆原创鈥檚 rowing team won four American Athletic Conference championships while the interdisciplinary studies student-athlete attended the university (2015-18). She earned a CRCA All-Region nod in 2018 as well as First Team All-American Athletic Conference first team honors in 2017 and 2018 and second team recognitions in 2015 and 2016.

鈥淏efore coming to 麻豆原创 I didn’t know how to be a teammate; I didn鈥檛 know how to fight as one. 麻豆原创 taught me so many things about what it’s like to be on a team,鈥� she says. 鈥淚n Lithuania, you have to choose one path in college 鈥� sports or education. 麻豆原创 allowed me to combine both and experience a culture and life I would have never dreamed about.鈥�

Kristen Thomas 鈥�16

Event dates: July 28-30

Thomas, a theatre studies alum, is a rugby traveling reserve for the Team USA. She previously represented Team USA as co-captain in the 2020 Summer Olympics, helping the team achieve a top 10 finish.

Thomas began her rugby career at 麻豆原创 in 2011, joining the Rugby Club 鈥� Women鈥檚 Team. Her exceptional talent was quickly recognized, leading to a call-up to the national team just two years later.

鈥溌槎乖� was pretty instrumental in developing me as a player,鈥� Thomas said in a 2021 article. 鈥淥ur coach, Raoul Besse, really harped on our skills. The physicality of the game I think I get a lot from him because you need to be physical in a contact sport. He was the first one to nominate me for the under-20 national team and if he hadn鈥檛 done that, I don鈥檛 know if I would be where I am today.鈥�

鈥淚t鈥檚 wonderful to see Nicholson School alumni making significant contributions to the field of journalism, especially right here in our central Florida community,鈥� says Robert Littlefield, 麻豆原创鈥檚 Nicholson School of Communication and Media (NSCM) director. 鈥淥ur journalism degree equips students with the knowledge and skills to successfully tell stories in today鈥檚 changing world, and industry leaders like Richard Bilbao represent what鈥檚 possible for 麻豆原创 students.鈥�

NSCM is part of 麻豆原创鈥檚 College of Sciences and includes communication, film and mass media, and games and interactive media degree programs, as well as the Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy.

Here are a few questions to get to know Bilbao better personally and professionally.

1. You鈥檝e spent much of your career post-麻豆原创 working for the Orlando Business Journal. What brought you to 麻豆原创, and how did your experience at the Nicholson School of Communication and Media prepare you for this role?听
The Nicholson School of Communication got me prepared to enter an industry I knew little about as a 24-year-old graduate. I was supported by professors and fellow students to be confident in myself and the training I got from 麻豆原创. The curriculum and the staff taught me all it could, and the rest I learned on the job. If I had to听do it all over again, I would choose to be a Knight every single time.

2. You recently posted that you are excited for the opening of Epic Universe Super Nintendo World because of the special place that Mario and his friends hold in your heart. Who is your go-to player and favorite map or track? Who is usually the first-place winner in your household?
As a little brother, I have always loved Luigi. My favorite Mario Kart track is Mute City from Mario Kart 8, the musical score is from the video game series F-Zero. I am the current reigning Mario Kart champion at home, but my two daughters are getting better. As long as I can perform the speed boosts better than them, I鈥檒l always have听that edge.

3. Other than the Epic Universe news, what are some other highlights of reporting on the Orlando business community that have excited or interested you?
Most recently, Orlando Business Journal has closely covered the ongoing discussions related to Orange County鈥檚 tourist development tax collections and the projects tied to that. The importance of those funds to many local business leaders was a focal point. Also, we had great coverage on the projects including the upcoming expansion to the Orange County Convention Center. We also closely followed the recent tussle between Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and The Walt Disney Co. While it appears those disagreements have been settled, it was an interesting battle to cover.

4. What鈥檚 your favorite family holiday tradition and recipe?
We try to watch a holiday movie every night in December, and bake a treat or do an activity. My wife makes a great reindeer chow that is hard to pry myself away from each year. My kids love to bake and decorate cookies to the point where we always have way too many.

5. If you could trade places with anyone for a week, who would it be?
My kids. As adults we remember how fun it is to be a kid and enjoy the听simplicities in life. Making friends and enjoying the little things are simple, yet so magical and filled with wonder.