Taking a chance on esports
Maria Lyons has always enjoyed tinkering with technology, computers, and video games. “I like being creative and building new things while taking others apart--just because I am curious,” she says.
At ONU, she found the perfect university for her inquisitive mind and adventurous spirit. A computer science major, she participated in the esports program, ONU marching band, honors program, and Phi Sigma Rho sorority.
“ONU gave me a home where I could share my passions with other people,” she says, "which was perfect, because I live my life finding new interests and experiences that enrich my life.”
Maria recounts that one day she was walking through McIntosh Center and spotted an esports booth. The esports director asked her: “Do you game?” She replied, “Yeah, I play Overwatch.” And that exchange prompted her to try out and land a spot on ONU’s varsity esports team.
Overwatch is a futuristic, multiplayer strategy game. After joining the team, Maria reached one of the highest ranks in the game. She found that gaming helped her relax while teaching her life skills.
“Sure, I learned how to competitively play Overwatch, but I also developed discipline, time management, and perseverance.”
She also gained friendships with players inside and outside ONU. “There was never a moment in the esports room where there wasn't enjoyment,” she says. “The people I met made me laugh and gave me memories that will last a lifetime.”
In the T.J. Smull College of Engineering, Maria excelled in the computer science program. She credits the small class sizes and professors who are passionate about helping students succeed.
“Before arriving at ONU, I had absolutely no experience or training in programming. I was a blank slate,” she says. “However, I learned a substantial amount of information on how to code with the support of my professors, despite it being a new and foreign topic for me.”
Maria encourages ONU students to “dip their toes” into new experiences, just like she did.
“It’s frightening, but after you take the plunge into a new organization, major, or club, it could be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made,” she points out. “I did that with esports. It changed my life!”