I've mainly done web development and typical university style assignments for the bulk of my programming experience- barely encountering algorithmic problems that weren't well defined.

Recently, I started creating a throwaway physics/game engine for fun and it is an awesome way to learn some really cool algorithms. Also, I did a small image manipulation app that exposed me to some cool stuff as well.

As a new grad it definitely pushed me more towards game development- would you mind sharing your reasons for leaving?