Haotian Zhang

Can you tell us about your research focus or interests?

I am focusing on Japanese world-building and culinary art in the media. In my thesis specifically I am studying a recently hit manga Delicious in Dungeon, and relating the world building with Japanese intrinsic thoughts. The thesis is work in progress and we just finalized its name to be: Let’s Cutlet the Dragon to Pieces! Japanese Cultural Subconsciousness, Food Ideology and Fantasy Worldbuilding in “Delicious in Dungeon”

Could you describe your role and responsibilities during your internship at Amazing Seasun Games?

I was interning in Amazing Seasun Games which is a wonderful games department under Kingsoft. I was a Technical Artist Intern so I was in charge of making game arts, I learned greatly and found an interesting time in Zhuhai, and traveled to great places like Macau and Guangzhou. It was my first time traveling in Caton areas in China (I am from 4 hours north by plane, Beijing) so everything seemed exciting to me.

What were a few of the highlights from your internship experience?

An important highlight is that I got to produce a 1024×1024 map in Unity Engine, which I had never done before. And Because Amazing Seasun worked really closely with USC, my undergraduate dean Danny visited us during our internship, and strongly encouraged us to work harder for a better school-industry relationship. Although the game industry seemed very overwhelming (and so did relocation), the people I met were so kind and welcoming that I am more confident I will follow this route in the future.

Do you have any advice for incoming students?

Really, follow what you love! I was hesitant when I joined EAAS PDP because I wasn’t fully sure if the game topics or world-building topics I am working on right now would interest people. But no matter how your professor tells you how much work you need to put in to improve your thesis or papers, they always love your topic! I can’t stop telling people how much my committee backed me up during my writing process and how your voice can be heard. Think about something you really love and carry it out and I can assure you, people will be surprised!

What are your plans after graduation?

Short term, I am finishing up my thesis and getting ready for OPT. Long term, I am trying to find game studios and get into the industry with my knowledge in East Asia and my passion in games!