Catching up with Matthew Heston (M.S. IARC '14)
The Department of Humanities recently checked in with alumnus Matthew Heston, who earned a Master of Science in Information Architecture in 2014. In this Q&A, Heston discusses what he's up to now and how he's utilizing his degree in his work. He also provides some advice for current students!
Why did you choose your field and degree program?
I've been interested in technology for a long time and I used to work as a software developer. I realized what was I was missing from my work was the focus on how people were actually using the technology I was making. I chose to study information architecture at Illinois Tech because it's a unique program that allowed me to continue to pursue my interest in designing new things while also providing the opportunity to think more about users of technology.
Where has your career taken you since your studies at Illinois Tech?
I'm now a second year Ph.D. student in Technology and Social Behavior, a joint degree in the Departments of Communication Studies and Computer Science, at Northwestern University.
What are the most exciting and challenging aspects of the work you do now?
I currently research communication in social media. As social media use continues to grow and new social media applications come out every day, it's very exciting to be in a field that examines how these technologies affect our relationships.
What do you hope to do next?
Right now I'm just focused on getting through my Ph.D. program. I hope to secure a research position where I can continue to study and improve the design of social media technologies.
How does what you learned in your degree program at Illinois Tech assist or inform the work you do now?
I definitely wouldn't be where I am now without my experience at Illinois Tech. My work in the Collaboration and Social Media Lab is what sparked my interest in pursuing a career in research, and the opportunity to work closely with faculty there on projects taught me a lot about what it means to be a good researcher.
Any advice for current students in your degree program?
[Illinois Tech has] great faculty that are doing really cool things and working on interesting problems. Look for opportunities to hang out with them and work with them outside of the classroom.
