About me

I am a Computer Science Ph.D. Student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison advised by Dr. Bilge Mutlu in the People and Robots Lab. My research focuses on designing and developing supportive technologies for adults with Down syndrome (DS), emphasizing assistive and accessible technologies, augmented reality (AR), and tangible interfaces. In 2023, I was honored to receive the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship to support this work.

My Research Journey

I am committed to creating inclusive, accessible technologies that enable adults with DS to achieve their personal and occupational goals. My research is guided by a collaborative, user-centered approach that includes building connections with the DS community, engaging in co-design studies, and conducting user studies of technology solutions. Through this process, I strive to bridge the gap between technological innovation and the lived experiences of adults with DS.

Highlights of my work include:

• Conducting qualitative interview studies with adults with DS, their parents, and experts to explore how technology is currently used within thier daily lives and identify opportunities for technology support.
• Completing a systematic scoping literature review to uncover gaps in existing research and inform the design of future assistive technologies.
• Leading technology probe studies to prototype and refine innovative budgeting systems that integrate AR, gamification, and tangible interfaces.
• Assessing computer security and privacy notifications to develop more accessible systems for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)

My goal is to ensure that every project centers the voices of adults with DS, designing technologies that are not only functional but also empowering and meaningful.

The Team Around Me

I am fortunate to work alongside incredible collaborators, mentors, and students who enrich my research and inspire me every day:

• Dr. Bilge Mutlu: Advisor, Professor in Computer Sciences
• Dr. Audra Sterling: Professor in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Waisman Center, collaborator, and committee member
• Dr. Rahul Chatterjee: Professor in Computer Sciences, collaborator, and committee memeber
• Dr. Yuhang Zhoa: Professor in Computer Sciences, committee member
• Dr. Kevin Ponto: Professor in Design Studies Department in The School of Human Ecology and in Virtual Environments at the Wisconsin Institute for Discovery (WID), committee member
• Callie Kim: Graduate student collaborator
• Julia Nonnenkamp: Graduate student collaborator
• Heidi Spalitta: Undergraduate mentee + Graduate mentee
• Aishwarya Borse: Undergraduate mentee
• Vibhrav Jha: Undergraduate mentee
• Harsh Singh: Undergraduate Mentee

I believe that collaboration is at the heart of impactful research. These individuals have directly shaped my Ph.D. journey, and I am grateful for their expertise and support.

Future Career Vision

My long-term aspiration is to become a professor of Computer Science, focusing on accessibility for individuals with cognitive disabilities. I hope to establish a research program that bridges academia and the community, with graduate students volunteering alongside local organizations to foster meaningful connections. My vision extends beyond academia—I aim to contribute to evolving accessibility guidelines for industry and government, ensuring technology is inclusive for everyone.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about my work!

Hobbies and Interests

Hiking + National Parks

Growing up in Washington made loving the outdoors feel inevitable. Hiking is one of my favorite ways to slow down and recharge, and I’m gradually checking national parks off my list, and I already have the next few planned.

Sewing

I picked up sewing during COVID as a creative outlet, and it quickly became a favorite way to unwind. I love making practical pieces such as tote bags, quilts, dresses, pants, jackets, and shirts. Though my growing fabric stash suggests I MAYYYY be more optimistic than realistic about future projects.

Baking

Baking has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Taught by my mom, it remains one of my favorite ways to relax and connect with others.

• Cakes + Pies
• Cookies + Candies
• Breads

Reading

I enjoy a mix of fantasy, magical realism, and classics, with a particular fondness for stories driven by strong characters and thoughtful reflections on identity, relationships, and meaning. A few favorites:

• Gideon the Ninth
• Mrs. Dalloway
• The Ocean at the End of the Lane
• The House in the Cerulean Sea
• Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow
• Before the Coffee Gets Cold
• Transcendent Kingdom
• 1984
• The Alchemist