Name: Xavier Dillahunt

Past Major and University: Economics, North Carolina A&T State University

Year in Program: 2nd year, last semester

Specialization: Human-Centered Computing

What made you choose the specialization?
I chose this specialization because I wanted to learn how to design and build computer programs more effectively. I want to make them easier to use.

What do you like about the program? Any favorite courses?
My favorite course would probably be interactive system design. Although it was a challenge because I was relatively new to Java, I learned a lot of useful concepts in this course that relate to designing systems effectively. Color schemes, how humans view colors, heuristics etc.
How are you managing your time effectively?
Time management, for me, was a challenge. Typically, I am good with time management, but since I am a novice at coding, it takes me longer to finish assignments.
Describe the iSchool Inclusion Institute of Information Sciences (i3) Program.
The i3 program was amazing. You are instantly connected to a network full of scholars who strive for success and institutions eager to recruit you.

How did the i3 Program help you as a student and professional?
The i3 program was essential for me to get my Master’s degree, and my internship. Because of the i3 scholarship, I was able to attend school here at Pitt. From there, I was able to secure an internship.
What is your favorite part of the i3 Program?

My favorite part of i3 (other than the summer experience) was the amount of opportunities the program opens for you. I was able to travel to Berlin, Germany to present research that I conducted with i3. That was my first time traveling internationally. It was nothing short of amazing.


Do you have any advice for prospective students?
Any prospective students who are interested in going to grad school for IS, this is the way to go! If you are not interested in IS, then this might not be the best program for you.

For more information on the iSchool Inclusion Institute of Information Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh, visit this website. Or, you can contact the i3 Director, Michael Depew at i3info@pitt.edu.