Robin Brewer
Why did you choose Northwestern?
Oddly enough, I hadn't heard of Northwestern until attending a conference as a master's student. I decided to apply because the research of my would-be advisor sounded exciting. She was studying how 105-year-old adults use technology in new ways.
How would you describe your research and/or work to a non-academic audience? What was it then and/or what it is now?
In my research I study how older people and disabled people use and do not use technology, designing ways for technology to better support their goals in connecting with others. Rather than focusing on visual technologies such as computers and smartphones, I study how voice-based technologies like Amazon Alexa and landline phones can be used to connect with friends, family, or new people.
Tell us who or what inspired your research and/or work.
My grandmother inspires my research on older adults and technology use. Especially with COVID, I see how she is isolated from family and, while recognizing valid privacy and technology dependence concerns, am inspired to investigate how technology can support her goals for social connectedness.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
As an assistant professor, I am excited to admit my first few PhD students, focusing on those who may come from non-traditional backgrounds in my research community.
Tell us about a current achievement or something you're working on that excites you.
As more people adopt smart speakers and other voice technologies, I'm excited to study how older adults use/aspire to use them. There are lots of challenges like how to balance privacy and prevent surveillance, but also many opportunities to connect to peers, family members, and others.
What advice would you give your younger self or someone considering a similar path?
Just go for it! It's great to be in a position where no one can tell me I need to go back to school, learn a new skill, or need a particular certification. I love working on whatever I'm interested in.