Andrew Dilanchian
Educational level: Undergraduate
Current affiliation: Undergraduate Student at Florida State University
Educational path: Double major in Computer Science (BA) and Psychology (BS) with a minor in Japanese (all in progress).
Why is aging important or meaningful to you?
Everyone ages. With age, certain abilities change that can interfere with the activities we enjoy. If I were unable to continue the same hobbies I enjoy today in the future, I would hope there would be technology that could help me maintain these activities. I feel that technology and technology research often focus on younger generations, and that older adults are frequently neglected in the design and development of new technology. And often research on the potential of technology to support older adults doesn't focus enough on supporting fun leisure activities that have the potential to enhance wellbeing. Because of this, as an undergraduate student, I completed an Honors Thesis examining older adults' use and perceptions of a new technology that might help them in the future: Virtual Reality (VR). Regardless of age, everyone should be able to benefit from new technology.
In what areas of aging work are you involved (research, teaching, clinical, leadership, etc.) and how much time/effort do you devote to each?
I engage in research as an undergraduate student at Florida State University. Specifically, I'm examining how VR can be used to enhance the lives of older adults. Being a student, my main focus is completing my degree. Aside from that, my research takes a majority of my time and attention.
What resources (including people, books, web sites, etc.) have been the most useful in developing your career, and why?
The psychology department at FSU has been the sole reason why I'm even able to do research at all. The faculty and staff here have been an invaluable resource; their support has enabled me to try out new things and get help when needed.
What has been a challenge (academic, clinical or research-based) you faced and how did you overcome it?
Being a student, the biggest challenge has been juggling school, research and hobbies. I believe that good time management and being able to step back from a stressful situation definitely helped me out, especially when I would get overwhelmed with work.
What is one bit of advice you would give to students entering the field?
Be a self-starter: Don't be afraid to ask/answer questions, don't be afraid to contribute ideas, don't be afraid to make mistakes.
What's next for you?
Once I get my bachelor's, I will pursue a doctorate in Cognitive Science and continue my research exploring how VR and upcoming technology might be used to help support older adults in their daily lives.