People

FACULTY

Jeremy Birnholtz, Associate Professor of Communication Studies
Jeremy Birnholtz’s research focuses on human-computer interaction issues, such as attention, information sharing, and collaboration through the use of technology. He has lectured and published widely on subjects that include young people’s attention to instant messaging, interruptions in attention in seniors with chronic pain, and deception in text messaging.

GRADUATE STUDENTS

Mike DeVito, Media, Technology, and Society

Mike DeVito is a doctoral student in the Media, Technology, and Society program. His research centers around the cognitive effects of new media on human social identity and information flows, including the formation and presentation of the self-concept through social media, trust in external memory, and lay understanding of algorithmic effects. Prior to coming to Northwestern, Mike earned both an M.A. in Media and Public Affairs and a B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication from The George Washington University.

Julia Fernandez, Media, Technology and Society
Julia Fernandez is a doctoral student in the Media, Technology, and Society program. She is interested in self-presentation and community formation on social media, particularly that of marginalized users. Prior to coming to Northwestern, she was a Junior Fellow at the Library of Congress’ National Digital Information Infrastructure and Preservation Program, and a legal assistant at the boutique firm Harkins Cunningham LLP. She previously earned her B.A. in Media Studies from Smith College.

Matthew Heston, Technology & Social Behavior
Matthew Heston is a PhD student in the Technology and Social Behavior program. He is interested in social interactions between members of groups and organizations online. His current research studies anonymity and location based mobile social media applications. He earned his M.S. from the Illinois Institute of Technology and his B.A. from Bradley University.

Madeline E. Smith, Technology & Social Behavior
Madeline is a PhD Candidate in the Technology & Social Behavior joint program in Computer Science and Communication. Her research currently focuses on relational, supportive, and deceptive aspects of social media and is supported by a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship. She previously earned an M.S. in Information Science from Cornell University and a B.S. in Computer Science from Ithaca College.

RESEARCH ASSISTANTS

Faalon Andrews
Faalon Andrews is studying Communication Studies with a concentration in Digital Media, while minoring in English – Creative Writing. She is interested in the different usages of social media platforms and the opportunities that arise from growing platforms. She is also interesting in how it can influence consumer behaviors. She plans on graduating in June 2019.

Rachel Horowitz
Rachel Horowitz is majoring in Communication Studies and Spanish. Her interests lie in the relationship between people and technology on social media and the role that social media plays in her generation. She plans on graduating in June 2020.

Justine Yucesan, Northwestern University