Social Gamers: AFK

Michael Dory is a designer, artist and researcher currently focusing on ubiquitous computing, game design and human computer interaction as a masters candidate at NYU’s Interactive Telecommunications Program (ITP).

He’s previously worked with IBM, Nikon, Sony and Vision Education & Media on projects ranging from public relations and peer media strategy to interaction design and product prototyping. His personal and collaborative projects, including including the audio graffiti project Concrete Crickets and networked social game Socialbomb have appeared in/on/at the New York Times, National Public Radio, Conflux Festival, BoingBoing, and MAKE Magazine.

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Adam Simon is a masters candidate at NYU’s Interactive Telecommunications Program (ITP), graduating in the spring of 2008 after completing substantial research in game design, social networking, physical computing, and human computer interaction. He most recently worked as a game producer and wireless consultant for area/code, one of the world’s leading real-world gaming companies. Previously, he produced original online content in the Digital Media division of CBS. Prior to that, he served as Digital Media Manager for acclaimed marketing firm Conductor, designing content delivery strategy. He earned a BA in theater from UCLA.

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Scott Varland is a masters candidate at NYU’s Interactive Telecommunications Program (ITP), graduating in the spring of 2008 after completing substantial research in game design, social networking, physical computing, and human computer interaction. He previously served as Technology Director for GTCR Golder Rauner, LLC, a private equity firm managing more than $8 billion in equity and mezzanine capital. Prior to that, he served as Systems Engineer for Communications Equity Associates, a global investment bank with expertise in the media, entertainment, and communications industries. He earned a BFA from NYU in experimental theater.

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