**Overcoming Challenges in Game Design by Johanan

**Overcoming Challenges in Game Design by Johanan - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my internship, where I worked on developing a game concept related to diabetes awareness. Initially, I was excited to combine my passion for technology with wellness. However, as the project progressed, I became overwhelmed by the sheer complexity of the task. There were so many factors to consider balancing the game’s educational value with engagement, ensuring accuracy in the health information, and creating a cohesive narrative that resonated with the audience.

I realized I had taken on too much without a clear structure. Instead of giving up, I stepped back and reevaluated my approach. I spent time researching effective game design strategies and studying examples of successful educational games. I broke the project into smaller, manageable parts and developed a detailed plan. Although the game was never completed, the process taught me how to manage large scale projects more effectively.

This experience was transformative. It helped me discover a talent for research, which became a cornerstone for my future projects. I also learned the importance of asking for help and collaborating with others. By turning what initially felt like a failure into a learning experience, I became more confident in my ability to tackle complex challenges in the future.