Earlier in the Spring 2025 semester, students from Pace University’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems joined forces with peers from Parsons School of Design for an unforgettable game jam experience themed around scientific phenomena. The two-day event, named “Phenomenal,” was run by Seidenberg’s Game Development program Director Carmine Guida and Brad MacDonald from Parsons. They challenged 24 student developers and designers to create arcade-style games that explored the wonders of science—while also fostering meaningful cross-campus collaboration.

The game jam kicked off on Saturday at Parsons, where students from both schools met for the first time. Icebreakers and introductions laid the groundwork for interdisciplinary collaboration. Students formed small teams of three to four participants, blending talents from both institutions.

“While many of the students at both schools can do code and art, our students mostly focused on coding while the Parsons students focused on design,” said Carmine Guida.

Students made their own art and even music for these projects.

On Sunday, the event moved to Pace University’s New York City Campus. As teams dove into development, using the “Phenomenal” theme as inspiration to bring scientific ideas to life through gameplay, the students worked to transform their ideas into creative yet functional, playable games.

“The students really got into the developing of their games and we started to see prototypes emerge,” Guida noted. “By the end of the day, the students had completed games which can be seen on itch.io.” And you can give these games a try yourself at the link below!

Playable student-made games

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In line with the jam’s arcade-style directive, all projects were designed to be playable on a custom arcade machine located in the Design Factory space on the ninth floor of 15 Beekman. Some of the completed games are already featured on the machine—and can be played by anyone who wants to try them out!

What made “Phenomenal” particularly special was not just the quality of the work produced, but the spirit of collaboration it cultivated. According to Dr. Guida, the event surpassed all expectations. “This event was even better than expected!” he said.

Everyone worked so well together. They were great at dividing up the work and everyone was constantly working and doing things.

Perhaps even more exciting is what’s coming next. “These kids are staying in touch with each other and want to do more collaborations,” Guida added.

Events like “Phenomenal” show how powerful experiential learning can be when paired with curiosity, creativity, and community. By stepping out of their comfort zones and collaborating across disciplines, students didn’t just build games—they built lasting connections and new ways of thinking. And for many of them, this jam was just the beginning.

Angeleena Kuriakose

Class of 2025

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Currently Studying: BBA in Business Administration, MBA in Marketing Analytics

Member (Clubs): Student Assistant at The Front Yard (TFY)

Why did you choose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business?

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Pace University and the Lubin School of Business offered me the opportunity to interact with real-world business professionals. The strong network and opportunities I saw through alumni and industry connections made Pace the ideal place to pursue my business education. Lubin’s emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation made me want to be part of an environment where I could gain hands-on experience, make meaningful connections, and have access to opportunities that would set me up for success in the business world.

Lubin’s emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation made me want to be part of an environment where I could gain hands-on experience, make meaningful connections, and have access to opportunities that would set me up for success in the business world.

Tell us about your work with TFY. What do you do, how did you come across the position, and what has been the biggest highlight of working with TFY?

At The Front Yard, I am the Assistant to the Director. I help drive the program’s mission of fostering entrepreneurship and innovation at Pace. My role includes managing social media, coordinating events, and providing support to students, faculty, administration, and founders. I play a key role in organizing and managing logistics for events, startup programs, and initiatives, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants. I came across this position through my previous professor, Tamir Harosh, the program’s director. He saw potential in me during the semester and we stayed connected after the course ended. When the opportunity arose at TFY, Tamir offered me the position, and I have been fortunate to work closely with him ever since and have him as a truly inspiring mentor. The biggest highlight has been the incredible community of founders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. Everyone has an “anything is possible” mindset, and the culture of support and collaboration makes TFY an inspiring environment.

How do you think your time with The Front Yard will help prepare you for post-graduate roles?

My time with TFY has given me hands-on experience in event coordination, social media management, and strategic planning, all of which are valuable skills for post-graduate roles. Working closely with founders and administration has strengthened my ability to manage projects, problem-solve, and communicate effectively in professional settings. Additionally, being part of an entrepreneurial community has taught me how to think creatively, adapt quickly, and build meaningful connections. These are all skills that will be essential in any career path I pursue.

What are your future career aspirations? How has your time at Pace and at Lubin specifically prepared you to achieve your goals?

My future career aspirations are to become a project manager at a leading creative company in the entertainment, media, or tech industries, as well as explore and pursue my own entrepreneurial endeavors. My time at Lubin has prepared me by equipping me with essential skills in project management, leadership, and strategic thinking. Through my work with The Front Yard, I’ve gained hands-on knowledge in coordinating events, managing cross-functional teams, and fostering innovation. Lubin's focus on experiential learning and entrepreneurship has also provided me with a strong foundation to navigate the dynamic challenges of the creative industry, or to build my own business.

What has been your favorite opportunity at Pace?

My favorite opportunity at Pace has been my involvement with The Front Yard. Through this program, I’ve had the chance to work on events, engage directly with industry professionals, and gain hands-on experience in entrepreneurship and innovation. The connections I have made and the opportunity to be part of a community that fosters creativity and collaboration have been incredibly rewarding. It’s given me a deeper understanding of the professional world and has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students?

Explore entrepreneurship, no matter what area of business you’re in. You never know how you can be part of something, even in unexpected ways. Keep an open mind and explore the ideas you have—anything can become a great concept, and some of the best inventions start small. Take advantage of The Front Yard and other entrepreneurship opportunities at Pace. They provide incredible resources to help elevate your ideas to the next level. You never know what the next big thing could be, and you don’t want to regret not trying. Also, remember that failure is ok—it means you are trying, and that in itself is already a success.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#LubinLife is about being part of a community that thrives on innovation, growth, and collaboration. It’s a place where ideas come to life, and students are supported in turning their passions into real world success.

Connect with Angeleena:

• Connect with Angeleena on LinkedIn
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After spending the last 35 years pursuing a career in finance, Todd Jacobson ’27 decided to switch gears and pursue a law degree. “After the COVID-19 pandemic, the potentially negative longer lasting consequences became abundantly clear – from educational outcomes to healthcare access, and more. I would like to pursue a career in public policy to work on these issues.”

The part-time JD Flex scheduling program at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University appealed to Todd as it provided the flexibility he desired. “My professional and home life have been equally busy. I have four children ranging in age from 12 to 28. Pace Haub Law’s Flex program was exactly what I was looking for to be able to balance the demands of my everyday life, while also pursuing my law degree.”

Coming from what Todd describes as a great team during his finance career, Todd feels fortunate to have a great new team at Pace Haub Law. “I have been inspired by the quality of my professors and have also built new friendships with fellow students. The atmosphere at the Law School is very much one of collegiality; we all want one another to succeed.” Todd has also found enjoyment in participating in several student groups, including the Older Wiser Law Students (OWLS), Health Law Society, and the Public Interest Law Student Organization.

Since starting Pace Haub Law, Todd has enjoyed pursuing a variety of opportunities. “I participated in the 1L Moot Court Competition, which was terrific. It was a whole new experience and challenge, but such a supportive and collaborative experience.” Todd looks forward to participating in the various healthcare classes and offerings at Haub Law. “There are endless classes and opportunities which align with my goal of working in public policy.”

As an older student, Todd wants to impart on others that it is never too late to start. “I have always been a strong believer in the pursuit of life-long learning. This experience has validated that view.” In his spare time, Todd enjoys tennis, backgammon, and skiing. He also works closely with his alma mater, SUNY-Binghamton. “I continue to mentor students and work with the Management School and am also on the Investment Board. I have also been active with the UJA-Federation of NY on their Caring Committee. I find fulfillment in giving back.”