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" My research lies at the intersection of aging, accessibility, and technology. I am very close to my grandmother, and witnessing her experience of aging has made me more aware of how everyday environments can become harder to navigate as physical abilities change. "
Letitia Zhu
Gerontology doctoral student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field
I am a second-year PhD student in the Department of Gerontology, with a background in design and engineering. My research lies at the intersection of aging, accessibility, and technology. I am very close to my grandmother, and witnessing her experience of aging has made me more aware of how everyday environments can become harder to navigate as physical abilities change. This personal connection inspires me to keep learning, listen to older adults鈥� lived experiences, and contribute to more accessible, age-friendly environments that support their diverse needs.
Why did you choose to come to SFU?
I first became interested in 麻豆视频after attending a seminar by a faculty member in Gerontology, which sparked my interest in community-engaged research. I later explored this method through several projects and found it fascinating. My research interests also align closely with those of my current supervisor. Combined with my love for Vancouver鈥檚 natural surroundings, these connections made 麻豆视频feel like a great fit both academically and personally.
How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?
I use virtual reality, a technology that lets people experience immersive digital environments, to help older adults with mobility difficulties explore homes and community spaces in new ways and share their ideas for making these places more accessible and better suited to their diverse needs.
What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?
Community-engaged research, Accessibility, Virtual reality
How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?
Over the past two years, I have participated in several community-engaged research projects in the Inclusive Environments Lab, contributing to different stages of the research process. Collaborating with community partners and conducting in-depth interviews with older adults have given me valuable hands-on experience and taught me to listen closely to people鈥檚 voices and lived experiences. As an international student, these opportunities have also helped me understand the local context and build meaningful connections. I am especially grateful to my supervisor, Dr. Atiya Mahmood, for her encouragement and the opportunities she has given me. I still remember her patiently reassuring me during our first meeting that I would be 鈥渓earning by doing.鈥� Coming from a different disciplinary background, this approach helped me build experience and confidence. My RA experience has shown me the importance of grounding research in the everyday realities of older adults, allowing their lived experiences to shape the questions I ask and the knowledge I develop.
Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research
As an international student, I am proud to have received the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship鈥揇octoral (CGRS-D) from SSHRC. This award gives me the freedom to pursue research that I find meaningful and the encouragement to believe that my work is valued. It also supports me in working alongside older adults, listening to their voices, and ensuring that their experiences and ideas guide my research.
What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?
The most valuable lesson I have learned is that doing research also means finding people I trust and enjoy working with.
How do you approach networking and building connections in and outside of your academic community?
I actively participate in conferences, community forums, and fellowship programs, which give me opportunities to connect with people who share my enthusiasm and interests.
What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?
As an introvert, I enjoy spending time on my own, but I also make a point of doing something beyond studying and working every day. I block out time for workouts, cooking, and caring for my plants, which helps me recharge and maintain balance.
Contact Letitia:letitia_zhu@sfu.ca