On March 19, 2026, IGNITE Students from Woodside High School participated in a Women in Digital Arts Mini-Panel hosted by IGNITE Worldwide. This Panel event featured professionals from Electronic Arts, including Lead Panelist Naijia Jin, who works in Technical Art, and Panelist Kathryn Peterson, an Animator. The event, supported by educator Faith Velschow, gave students a closer look at creative careers in the gaming and digital arts industry.
The conversation focused on how to break into digital arts roles and what day-to-day work looks like in the field. Students were especially curious about career pathways, asking whether a formal art background is required and how emerging tools like AI are shaping the industry. They also wanted to know what panelists enjoy most about their work and what challenges they encounter. The Panelists shared practical advice: follow your interests, seek out mentors, and don’t hesitate to ask for help or feedback along the way. The discussion felt grounded and honest, and students stayed engaged throughout, asking thoughtful questions and exploring how their own interests could connect to careers in digital arts.
“Today’s event inspired me because it gave me the confidence that I can pursue a STEM career in the future if I set my mind to it correctly. It also opened my eyes to how much experience we may need.”
11th Grade IGNITE Student
“My favorite part of today was the questions portions, as it allowed the speakers to open up more about how they got to where they are. I also love how they went through their struggles in high school.”
11th Grade IGNITE Student
“I got to meet people who are in fields I want to go into in the future. That inspired me because it shows me I can do it if they can.”
10th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
97%
INTERESTED IN STEM
74%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
68%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
71%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“I learned more about different types of STEM careers and feel more confident in how [to approach] college and picking new fields. I liked learning about how they picked majors and the reassurance of everything will work out” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“I want to thank the volunteers for dedicating their time. Hearing them talk about their lives puts stress off my own.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It made me more aware of STEM-related careers that may not be as heavy in the sciences. I learned about possible careers in digital animation for example. I learned that you don’t need to plan for ages on what major you choose. Just pick something you are interested in, and try your best.” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today’s event was great and gave me confidence that I can join the animation field. Even though I have the confidence to join, I still have to perfect my craft.” – 12th Grade IGNITE Student
“It helped me know more about persevering through college and industry challenges. I have more knowledge on how pursuing STEM majors in college and working in STEM careers work.” – 11th Grade IGNITE Student
“I think it helped me realize that you don’t have to have done everything or have everything planned out before going to college.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
“I think the favorite thing I’ve learned is how you should start exploring how to use AI as a tool, as it has become very important in this day and age.” – 9th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Naijia Jin
- Kathryn Peterson
- Faith Velschow
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.