Draven Myers

Draven Myers

Class Year

’25

Hometown

White Heath, Illinois

Major(s)

Computer Science — Game Development Concentration

Minor(s)

Film and New Media

“I’ve had some professors who are genuinely so passionate about teaching that I feel excited to go to their classes and talk with them. They’ve helped me rediscover my love for learning and exploring the world.”

Draven Myers, ’25

Career goal

“My hope is to have my own game company while working with non-profit organizations to help kids in hospitals with long-term illnesses find fun and human connections. I’d love to find a way to use games to help those with PTSD, memory loss, and disabilities alleviate symptoms, create friendships, and overall improve quality of life.”

How have Carthage faculty had an impact on your life or Carthage career?

“I’ve had some professors who are genuinely so passionate about teaching that I feel excited to go to their classes and talk with them. They’ve helped me rediscover my love for learning and exploring the world. I have several health issues, and they’ve also been extremely kind and understanding — making me feel that, despite my disabilities, I can succeed.”

Favorite class

“My favorite two classes so far have been Understandings of Religion with Professor Andrea Ng’weshemi and Advanced Writing with Professor Richard Meier. Prof. Ng’weshemi’s enthusiasm really helped me get through my anxiety about returning to school after five years, and I’m so glad to have gotten new perspectives on the world from him. Prof. Meier has helped me find new ways to approach and enjoy writing, and I’m finding it so much fun to do these exercises that I don’t think I’m doing homework.”

Campus involvement

“Yes, I am currently the secretary of Adventures in Fandom and Cosplay! It’s a lot of fun, and you get to meet great people. I’ve really enjoyed our game nights and working with everyone on artistic goals. I’ve also been involved with the Art Club.”

Toughest class

“I think so far, my toughest was Acting I. I’m very bad at memorization, but the class was so much fun overall! It didn’t necessarily feel tough, though, just a challenge!”

Opportunities at Carthage

“So far, I’ve been very excited about the opportunities presented to me, like J-Term, campus organizations, and research. I’m hoping to do more!”

Scholarships

“Yes! I received quite a few scholarships and feel very lucky to have gotten them. I received the Carthage Academic Honors Scholarship and was somewhat unaware of this until checking my financial aid. I feel very honored to have gotten this, as it takes a massive financial stressor off of me.”

Favorite moments and memories at Carthage

“I really love seeing Watson, the president’s dog, when he’s out for a walk! He’s such a sweet boy, and it’s a wonderful mood booster. I’ve also loved getting to chat with my resident assistants and the brief conversations I have with people in the halls. I also really love the game nights with my club.”

Favorite spot on campus

“I love to sit by the meditation chapels and walk by the Kissing Rock. There’s also a telescope behind The Tower by the beach that’s very relaxing to sit by.”

Biggest surprise so far

“I think I’ve been surprised mostly by the kindness and concern of staff regarding my health, as well as the enthusiasm of other students for campus projects I’ve thought of.”

What would your 8-year-old self think of you now?

“My 8-year-old self wanted to be a baker at some point. Computer science is a bit different than what I planned, but there’s no reason I can’t also be a baker in the future.”

Why should other students consider your major? What advice do you have for them?

“If you’re considering computer science, talk to a faculty member and see what they recommend to give it a try! You can have a lot of fun just experimenting. And there’s nothing wrong with taking a few classes and realizing it’s not the right fit for you.”

Why Carthage?

“My brother (who graduated in 2018) came to Carthage and absolutely fell in love with it. While visiting, I personally adored the campus and figured after years of being out of school due to my health, I would give Carthage a try. I feel extremely lucky to have the team helping me go forward, professors caring about me and my health, and friends being so supportive.”