Patrick Carrington

Ph.D. Alumnus

What was your background before entering the PhD program?
B.S. in Information Systems from UMBC
M.S. in Human-Centered Computing from UMBC

Tell us a little about your research
I study accessibility challenges, wearable technology, and build assistive technology prototypes. “Chairable Computing” describes the application of mobile and wearable computing for people who use wheelchairs – devices that fit both the frame of the wheelchair and the user’s lifestyle.

What do you like best about the HCC program at UMBC?
Early in the program I was still undecided as to where my interests were. The faculty were all very supportive of my trying different projects or research areas to figure out what I was really passionate about. All of the faculty I have had the privilege of working with have been responsive and willing to schedule time to meet and talk about research or give realistic advice on navigating graduate school. This openness has been invaluable to me as a student and as a mentor my aim has been to pass along that openness and support to others.