College Gamers Compete for Scholarships in Major Tournament
More than 400 college gamers are gathering in Greenville, South Carolina, to take part in a high-stakes tournament at the Southeast Game Exchange. This event is not just about gaming; it’s also an opportunity for students to earn scholarships and gain valuable experience in the growing esports industry.
The tournament is organized by the Carolina Games Summit, and Creative Director Michael Everett shared some exciting details. Gamers will compete for prizes from a generous $400,000 prize pool. Everett mentioned that they anticipate 51 winners from a total of 480 participants. The scholarships awarded range from $1,000 to $5,000, and are provided by North Carolina Wesleyan University, Barton College, and Louisburg University.
“We’re working with schools that offer esports programs,” Everett explained. “Our goal is to help kids understand how to build a career in the esports industry.” He emphasized that the scholarships are open to anyone with an interest in esports, regardless of their major. Students don’t need to be studying game design or esports specifically—just a passion for playing and learning about the industry is enough.
The tournament features a variety of popular games, including Fortnite, Gran Turismo, Donkey Konga 2, and Rocket League. These games are not only fun but also serve as a platform for players to showcase their skills and potentially earn recognition.
But the Southeast Game Exchange offers more than just competitive gaming. It’s a full-day event with multiple activities for attendees. Visitors can participate in a cosplay contest, which allows fans to express their creativity through costumes inspired by their favorite characters. There’s also an interactive scavenger hunt with side quests that add an element of adventure to the experience.
For those looking for entertainment, live wrestling shows and panels featuring celebrities and content creators are also part of the event. These panels provide insights into the gaming world and offer a chance for attendees to interact with industry professionals.
Another highlight of the event is the opportunity to buy, sell, or trade game and character memorabilia. Fans can find rare items or even trade their own collectibles with other enthusiasts. This aspect of the event brings together gaming communities and fosters a sense of camaraderie among attendees.
The tournament is ongoing and will continue through July 19–20 at the Greenville Convention Center. Those who couldn’t attend on the first day still have plenty of time to join in the excitement.
With its mix of competition, entertainment, and educational opportunities, the Southeast Game Exchange is becoming a must-attend event for gamers and gaming enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, there’s something for everyone at this dynamic gathering.
