The IGDA - Worth it?

[distant goblet]

Not sure if this is the right tag, but I wanted to know if the $30/yr for students to join the IGDA is worth it, especially when you're already studying software engineering with a focus on games engineering (I'm both working with Unity within my courses in later semesters and I'm working on my own personal project too).
I would really love to have access to the mentoring services and industry connections as I would really like to work within the industry once I finish uni.

[wary cloak]

The first things you need is an actual experience/portfolio. Afterwards, I recommend to subscribe to multiple Game Jam. This will give you the most tangible connection that you can get.

I have never heard of the IGDA before, I believe this would be a better place for actual entrepreneur or for people that are already well invested in their career.

[distant goblet]

Is there anything else to get into that in-group tho? I can't always participate in game jams with my schedule.

And I want to know if I'm doing the right thing and want to meet the right people so I can get a good job within the industry.

[wary cloak]

If you are not ready to make time for a Game Jam, I do not really know what to say. You will not magically be prompt job offer if you join something like the IGDA.

It does not mean there is no other alternative, it just that from my experience, Game Jam is a great way to create connection that means something.

[distant goblet]

I didn't say that...? Just looking for all kinds of things to do until I get time for Game Jams again.

[long mason]

IGDA depends very much on where you're at, here in Finland, it's quite big and thus a decent networking place. Assuming you're putting effort into talking to new people

Lots of people do go to meetings up though with people they already know or to catchup with friends so it can at times be a bit difficult to get into the scene

Most studios here are also IGDA sponsors and their employees get free igda membership

[turbid atlas]

I agree, different locations have different vibes too. I personally dislike the one in Australia as it's mostly commercially minded and as such the community is uninteresting to me. I'd rather just talk to people in the union or some other more niche space

[long mason]

And as with many things, it really depends how much you put in. If you sign up, pay the fee and then don't do anything, you also get nothing

[lavish tide]

Yeah, where I am the IGDA doesn't even exist for the most part. They are a great resource for statistics for businesses cases (although we have better ones where we are). It's an association, I really dislike some associations (vrara comes to mind). I've always seen igda at gdc etc. It's like any of those associations, if you can find a way to really utilize it, it may be worth it. But iirc igda wasn't too overly expensive, I'm just not sure if it's worth it

Mentorship is hard to find though, I'm not sure the igda will help there, but can really help transform your career. As mentioned above, a portfolio is critical.

To put it in context, we get about 3 to 5 applications a day with most having portfolios and experience. It's really important to demonstrate your skills to have any kind of chance.

[distant goblet]

That goes without saying that I'm gonna be working on my portfolio, that's one reason why I'm working on that project right now.
I'm also interested in the business side of game development (expected revenue,...) and thought it could maybe help me out there.
Would I sign up for the one in my country (Germany, so the one in Berlin) or do I go to the one that's geographically closest to me (Zurich)?

[lavish tide]

You'd think it would go without saying, but you'd be surprised 😉 good luck with the decision