Daniel Choi, Jacob Le

Introduction

In our exploration of collegiate eSports, we sought to understand the benefits and challenges that arise within universities. Our initial focus was on researching eSports, but after receiving feedback from fellow students at the University of Washington (UW), we realized that taking a holistic view of eSports would better address the benefits that follow in universities. We wanted our topic to serve as a resource for other students interested in joining online eSports clubs, creating a haven for them to bond and connect with others without the hassle of meeting up or dressing up. Additionally, we decided to emphasize the benefits of collegiate eSports rather than solely focusing on the cons and negative effects.

Impact of eSports on College Students

To better grasp the realities of collegiate eSports, we conducted interviews with individuals involved in the community. One interviewee shared, “Although you can meet some people online that are mean, overall, I was able to befriend people who are genuinely interested in creating lasting friendships.” This quote highlights the social aspect of collegiate eSports, where players can form connections and create a sense of community. eSports clubs, such as the League of Legends club at UW, provide platforms for individuals to meet new people and form friendships regardless of their in-person presence. These clubs cultivate a healthy atmosphere, nurturing a sense of belonging and camaraderie among members.

In exploring the connection between eSports and the place of sport, we observed the grandeur of eSports events. One image captures the All Worlds event for CSGO, with a live audience of 15,000 people gathered to support the competing teams. This image showcases the scale and magnitude of eSports competitions, where fans come together from different backgrounds to celebrate their shared passion. eSports events like these break traditional barriers and bring people together, creating a vibrant community centered around a virtual sport.

Connection Between eSports and Class Themes

Drawing on the theme of a thick institution, we see the contrast between individualistic and collectivist approaches within the eSports landscape. While some individuals may view eSports as a means of pursuing self-interest, our interviews revealed a prevailing higher purpose. Michael Gov, the president of the Valorant club at the UW expressed, “Every single person I talk to who is a part of eSports, they take part in that career or job because they enjoy it, and I think that is what really drives that industry, the love for the game.” This quote emphasizes the collective passion that drives the eSports industry, where individuals engage in eSports careers driven by their love for the game rather than purely personal gain. Furthermore, according to Rowman and Littlefield, they claimed that  “eSports has been a growing phenomenon over the past decade with currently about 1600 eSports clubs across 600 universities, and experts predict these numbers will continue to rise” to argue the importance of growth in eSports in the university campus, where it played a vital role in creating bonds and relationships with other students both online and offline.

Applying the thick institution theme, we can analyze how collegiate eSports foster a strong sense of community. These clubs provide shared tasks and collective rituals, such as organizing meet-up events like the one organized by the UW Overwatch club at an ice skating rink. This event exemplifies the sense of community that eSports creates in universities, transcending the virtual realm and bringing people together in physical spaces. Collegiate eSports offer students the opportunity to connect with others who share their interests, develop important skills like collaboration and communication, and explore various career paths within the eSports landscape.

Benefits and Challenges in eSports

Our exploration of collegiate eSports in universities highlights the benefits and challenges that arise within this growing industry. eSports clubs provide a platform for students to connect, form lasting friendships, and participate in a shared community. The scale and magnitude of eSports events demonstrate the growing influence of eSports and its ability to bring people together. By analyzing eSports through the lens of a thick institution, we observe the collective passion and sense of community that drives the industry. Collegiate eSports offer opportunities for personal and professional growth while raising concerns about academic performance, addiction, and balancing responsibilities. However, the overall impact of collegiate eSports is undeniably positive, as it provides a space for students to pursue their passion, develop important skills, and find a sense of belonging. According to The Journal Sport, they claimed that creating opportunities for students to join clubs where they highly prioritize inclusion and equity for all gamers, and in tandem, look to extrapolate the presence of gaming in colleges such as creating or relating it with course curriculums (Murray; Price; Decker, n.d.).

It is important to note that integrating eSports into higher education requires careful consideration and research. Institutions must address concerns regarding academic performance by implementing policies that encourage a healthy balance between gaming and academics. They can provide resources and support systems to help students manage their time effectively and prioritize their responsibilities. Furthermore, addressing the potential for addiction is crucial. Just like any other activity, excessive gaming can lead to negative consequences. Universities can establish programs that promote responsible gaming habits, educate students about the signs of addiction, and provide resources for those seeking help. In terms of the financial aspect, collegiate eSports has the potential to attract sponsorships and partnerships, providing additional funding for universities. These collaborations can create opportunities for internships, scholarships, and job placements within the eSports industry, offering students valuable real-world experiences and career pathways.

Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of collegiate eSports, it is clear that the benefits of integrating eSports into universities outweigh the challenges. Collegiate eSports clubs foster a sense of community, offer opportunities for personal and professional growth, and create a vibrant campus culture. By embracing eSports as part of the thick institution framework, universities can provide a diverse and engaging experience for their students, aligning with the evolving landscape of education.

ChatGPT Disclaimer

This narrative was generated with assistance from ChatGPT, a language model trained by OpenAI. While ChatGPT provided suggestions and helped in composing the narrative, the content has been reviewed and modified by the group members for accuracy and clarity.

References

Levy, J. (2021, December 2). How did the esports industry evolve?. Toronto Guardian. https://torontoguardian.com/2021/11/how-did-the-esports-industry-evolve/

Rogers, R. (2019). Leveraging Esports in Higher Education. In Understanding Esports: An introduction to the global phenomenon (pp. 201-217). Rowman & Littlefield. http://ebookcentral.proquest.com

Murray, J., Pricce, E. B., & Decker, S. (2021, March 25). The mission value of Collegiate Esports. The Sport Journal. https://thesportjournal.org/article/the-mission-value-of-collegiate-esports/