Press Start: How Esports Is Leveling Up Education

Once seen as a distraction, esports is now a driving force in education — opening doors to scholarships, careers, and connection. What was once “get off the game” has become “game on for your future.”

What Is Esports, Really?

Esports is organized, competitive gaming — with teams, coaches, strategy, and structure, just like traditional sports. But it’s more than gameplay. Students dive into broadcasting, branding, social media, game dev, and tech — gaining real-world skills while doing what they love.

Why Schools Are All In

Across high schools and colleges, esports is transforming education:

• Engagement: Students find community and purpose through competitive play.

• Leadership & Teamwork: Real-time strategy, communication, and problem-solving.

• Career Pathways: From content creation to coding, esports leads to tomorrow’s jobs.

Over 200+ colleges now offer varsity esports and millions in scholarships.

The Real-World Impact

Organizations like NASEF are proving esports isn’t just fun — it’s tied to STEM, social-emotional learning, and career-building. Schools everywhere are adopting it fast, from SoCal to the East Coast and beyond.

The question isn’t if schools should embrace esports — it’s how fast can they catch up?

Why It Matters Now

Today’s students live in a digital-first world. Esports is the bridge between their passions and their potential — preparing them for futures in media, marketing, design, and tech.

Where Gotta Create Comes In

At Gotta Create, we help schools and orgs bring esports to life:

• Build esports programs from the ground up

• Craft student-focused media and branding

• Deliver strategy, storytelling, and support

We meet this generation where they are — on their screens and in their dreams — turning passion into purpose.