UH Manoa to hold second collaborative study abroad practicum with professional Esports team

This summer, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa is set to hold its second collaborative study abroad internship practicum with famed professional Esports company Gen.G Esports. The program will take place at the Gen.G headquarters in Seoul, South Korea and can be counted for three UH Mānoa class credits in SOCS 489. ACM System is a major financial supporter of UH Esports.

This program, spearheaded by University of Hawai’i at Mānoa Esports’ Dr. Sky Kauweloa, is one of several efforts with Gen.G to foster the professional growth of UH Mānoa students interested in the Esports industry. Gen.G has previously supported UH Mānoa’s casual gaming and Esports RIO, Mānoa Academy of Gamers, through sponsoring activities, giveaways, tournaments, and advertising professional opportunities.

This year marks the second year of the practicum, after participants of last year’s program received acknowledgement both abroad and at home. During their time abroad, students gained hands-on experience working in marketing and education through the various program tracks. The students also learned firsthand from industry professionals and gained awareness of Korean culture and how it birthed the Esports industry, which helped them develop a greater understanding of the global context of Esports. Upon returning, the select few gave a presentation to students and professionals involved in the local Esports scene.

For students like senior Alie Wolpo, this experience represents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to gain experience in Asia, where the Esports industry continues to grow. South Korea, also known as the birthplace of Esports, is home to a thriving gaming and Esports culture along with many professional opportunities. Alie plans to participate in this year’s 2024 cohort to learn about the differences between South Korean and American work culture in Esports, and is looking forward to the “unique and personal experience” presented by the program.

Kylin Daniel, a senior student who worked on the education team as part of the 2023 cohort, highlights his experience creating connections, gaining presentation, communication, and leadership skills, and being able to work with a professional Esports team located in the “heart” of Esports. “It was cool to see that our work wasn’t just assignments for a grade, but projects used by Gen.G,” states Kylin. The education team worked on creating projects, assignments, and curriculum for Gen.G Global Academy, Gen.G’s education program for high school students looking for a career in Esports.

Nevan-Isaiah Pak, a senior student who worked on the marketing team as a part of the 2023 cohort, describes the experience as a chance for Hawai’i students to “experience international culture.” He highlights his admiration for the work culture he witnessed as a part of Gen.G, stating that “every single member of (the) organization felt very diligent and driven to succeed and work together.” As a part of the marketing team, Nevan worked to research market trends, expand Gen.G’s outreach, and create marketing materials. Nevan plans to utilize his learnings to work in Esports journalism to give voices to underrepresented communities, and is considering returning to Gen.G this summer to take on a mentor role for the 2024 cohort.

Students interested in developing their Esports industry experience may attend either of the Zoom information sessions held by Gen.G Esports on February 5th and February 7th, both at 4:30pm. During the information sessions, details about available roles, expectations, planned cultural experiences, and additional opportunities will be shared. Interested students are highly encouraged to attend. The application will be formally released after the information sessions and will close on February 20th.