Hello! I’m a recent graduate from the University of Southern California, where I earned a B.S. in Computer Science and Game Development. Originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, I am passionate about using technology and storytelling to create meaningful, interactive experiences. I specialize in gameplay programming and have experience working in C++, C#, Unreal Engine (Blueprints and UMG), and Unity. Throughout my academic career, I’ve developed a variety of games — from single-player puzzle titles to networked multiplayer shooters — and have contributed in roles such as gameplay programmer, UI engineer, and technical support aide. I’m particularly proud of my work on DuoQ and Bone Boy, which reflect my strengths in systems programming, physics, and player-centric design. In addition to my technical background, I bring strong leadership and project management skills. I’m a Girl Scout Gold Award recipient for creating an educational video game that helped kindergarten students with reading comprehension — a project that deepened my commitment to building games that educate and empower. I am actively pursuing more technical skills through hands-on experience and personal development.

Starr Hinton

Hello! I’m a recent graduate from the University of Southern California, where I earned a B.S. in Computer Science and Game Development. Originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, I am passionate about using technology and storytelling to create meaningful, interactive experiences. I specialize in gameplay programming and have experience working in C++, C#, Unreal Engine (Blueprints and UMG), and Unity. Throughout my academic career, I’ve developed a variety of games — from single-player puzzle titles to networked multiplayer shooters — and have contributed in roles such as gameplay programmer, UI engineer, and technical support aide. I’m particularly proud of my work on DuoQ and Bone Boy, which reflect my strengths in systems programming, physics, and player-centric design. In addition to my technical background, I bring strong leadership and project management skills. I’m a Girl Scout Gold Award recipient for creating an educational video game that helped kindergarten students with reading comprehension — a project that deepened my commitment to building games that educate and empower. I am actively pursuing more technical skills through hands-on experience and personal development.

Available to hire

Hello! I’m a recent graduate from the University of Southern California, where I earned a B.S. in Computer Science and Game Development. Originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, I am passionate about using technology and storytelling to create meaningful, interactive experiences. I specialize in gameplay programming and have experience working in C++, C#, Unreal Engine (Blueprints and UMG), and Unity. Throughout my academic career, I’ve developed a variety of games — from single-player puzzle titles to networked multiplayer shooters — and have contributed in roles such as gameplay programmer, UI engineer, and technical support aide. I’m particularly proud of my work on DuoQ and Bone Boy, which reflect my strengths in systems programming, physics, and player-centric design. In addition to my technical background, I bring strong leadership and project management skills. I’m a Girl Scout Gold Award recipient for creating an educational video game that helped kindergarten students with reading comprehension — a project that deepened my commitment to building games that educate and empower. I am actively pursuing more technical skills through hands-on experience and personal development.

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Experience Level

Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Teaching Assistant, Video Game Programming & Advanced Gameplay Programming at USC Viterbi School of Engineering
January 1, 2024 - May 31, 2025
Facilitated weekly lab sessions for 30+ students, improving their proficiency in C++ and Unreal Engine. Collaborated with professors to grade assignments, expediting feedback processes and elevating overall course performance. Led targeted office hours that resolved complex coding challenges, boosting student success and engagement.
Student Aide, Video Game Project Management (LiveOps) at USC School of Cinematic Arts
February 1, 2025 - May 31, 2025
Provided technical support to students using Unreal Engine for Fortnite (UEFN) and Verse, troubleshooting and offering guidance on gameplay mechanics and scripting challenges both in class and outside of scheduled hours. Collaborated with faculty by attending two weekly meetings to help with scheduling and to report updates on students’ progress. Enhanced student learning experience by creating a proactive, supportive educational environment.
Conference Associate at Game Developers Conference
March 1, 2024 - March 31, 2024
Selected through a competitive application process to assist with operations to ensure success of the largest annual gathering of professional game developers. Supported speaker sessions, helped manage attendee flow, and provided customer service and logistical assistance across the conference venues. Networked with industry professionals and gained valuable insight into current trends, tools, and technologies in game development.
Conference Associate at Game Developers Conference
March 1, 2025 - March 31, 2025
Selected through a competitive application process to assist with operations to ensure success of the largest annual gathering of professional game developers. Supported speaker sessions, helped manage attendee flow, and provided customer service and logistical assistance across the conference venues. Networked with industry professionals and gained valuable insight into current trends, tools, and technologies in game development.
Game Play/Abilities/UI Engineer at Duo Q
July 1, 2024 - May 31, 2025
Collaborated with a cross-functional team to develop a first-person shooter puzzle game in Unreal Engine. Engineered AI behavior trees and UI components using UMG (including off-screen indicators, collectible systems, dialogue systems, widget animations, input saving/loading, and custom sliders). Implemented core gameplay mechanics (projectiles, targeting systems) in C++ and Blueprints. Participated in regular development meetings to streamline progress, improve cross-disciplinary communication, and support a multiplayer Unreal Engine project.
Game Play Programmer at Bone Boy
January 1, 2023 - May 1, 2023
Collaborated with a diverse team of 30 designers, programmers, artists, and sound engineers from concept to Steam release. Developed a curved velocity-based movement system in Unity (C#) enabling character motion along ramps and curved rails. Implemented custom physics calculations for velocity adjustment and surface alignment.
Teaching Assistant, Video Game Programming & Advanced Game Play Programming at USC School of Cinematic Arts
January 1, 2024 - May 31, 2025
Facilitated weekly lab sessions for 30+ students, improving proficiency in C++ and Unreal Engine. Collaborated with professors to grade assignments, expedited feedback processes and elevated overall course performance. Led office hours that resolved complex coding challenges, boosting student success and engagement.
Student Aide, Video Game Project Management at USC School of Cinematic Arts
February 1, 2025 - May 1, 2025
Supported video game project management tasks; assisted coordination of stakeholder communications, scheduling, and logistics.

Education

Bachelor of Science at University of Southern California, Viterbi School of Engineering
January 1, 2019 - May 31, 2024
Bachelor of Science at University of Southern California, Viterbi School of Engineering
January 11, 2030 - January 23, 2026

Qualifications

Dean's List
January 11, 2030 - January 23, 2026
Black Alumni Association Scholar
January 11, 2030 - January 23, 2026
Gerald A. Lawson Scholar
January 11, 2030 - January 23, 2026
Rising Star Nominee
January 11, 2030 - January 23, 2026

Industry Experience

Gaming, Education, Media & Entertainment, Software & Internet, Professional Services