9 Questions

andrew at ecologylab dot net
1st year Ph.D.

Why are you taking this class?

I'm very interested in designing systems that use a more natural and fluid interface than the mouse and keyboard. Particularly, I want to design systems that promote creativity and design. It is my believe that sketch recognition can help in the creation of such systems.

What experience do you bring to this class?

My background is in HCI, more specifically Human-centered Computing (HCC). I've done a healthy dabble in the arts and design. I have familiarity with the humanities.

What do you expect to be doing in 10 years?

Hopefully, not sitting on my ass wondering where my life went wrong in the last 10 years. Ha. No, I expect to be doing fun, exciting, and innovative research in either academia or industry. I think academia will give me more freedom, but I would like to spend a little time in industry before that (a cliché answer, meaning I don't know whether I want academia or industry).

What do you think will be the next biggest technological advancement in computer science?

The end of Microsoft, or the multi-touch MacBook. Both I'm excited for. Seriously, I'd like to see something in wearable computing happen. I'd love to be able to place an iPhone in my pocket, and be able to access features of it from my shirt sleeve such as calendar, google maps, music, and so on.

What was your favorite course in undergrad (CS or otherwise)?

There were three I really liked:

1. Design Communication Foundations: fantastic design course that broaden my design skills.
2. Structures of Interactive Information: really exposed me to the ways information can be represented.
   
3. Photography: b&w film; shooting, developing, and making prints.
   

If you could be another animal, what would it be and why?

Pterodactylus - I like dinosaurs, and flying seems like fun.

What is your favorite motto or slogan?

"Everyone wants to be Cary Grant. Even I want to be Cary Grant."
- Cary Grant

What is your favorite movie?

It's almost impossible to pick a favorite. It will always depend on what day you ask me. Today, it's Amelie.

Name some interesting fact about yourself.

I played in a metal band in high school. We weren't very good.