Hometown: Calgary, AB
Year in program: 4th year
Research Interest: I am interested in cybersecurity and more specifically, phishing. The number of successful phishing attacks each year, and the extent of the associated losses, are both shocking statistics. I’m interested in the human component of this cyber problem – how users interact with phishing emails and security systems, and how these interactions affect a user’s likelihood of being phished. I participate in research exploring how users perceive and appraise phishing emails, interact with security systems, and decide how to deal with cyber threats. Hopefully this research could be used to identify users who may be more vulnerable to phishing, and to improve the design of phishing prevention/security systems.
Career Aspirations: After I graduate, I would like to be part of a creative and impactful research team in industry or government. If I could be part of a team applying HF principles and methods to improve the safety, usability/UX of a complex system or product, I would be happy as a clam.
Fun Fact: I took a clay pottery class this year and can now make ceramic mugs. Although, I’m not sure I’d pour hot coffee into one just yet.
Advice to younger students: Manage your time well and be okay with saying “no” to opportunities that don’t align with your priorities. Also, make time for your family, friends, and hobbies.