My name is Ella, and I am a computer science Ph.D. graduate from Clemson University’s Zucker Family Graduate Center in North Charleston, South Carolina, with specialized expertise in informal learning methodologies, technical writing, digital content creation, and inclusive design. In 2018, I decided it was time to pursue a graduate degree in the evenings while maintaining my full-time industry position, and in 2021, I transitioned to my PhD program full-time. My research focuses on software development communities, live streaming software development, and software engineering education, with particular emphasis on creating accessible learning experiences for diverse learners through my work with the NSF-funded Educating Autistic Software Engineers (EdASE) program and research on developer communities.
I have created original and engaging learning experiences that improved knowledge retention and learner outcomes for undergraduate computer science students, while also developing user-focused documentation across my seven years of technical writing experience in both industry and academia. My published research demonstrates my commitment to understanding how technology can democratize access to computer science education, and my hands-on curriculum development experience shows my ability to translate research insights into real-world educational impact. My goal with my career is to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application in computer science education to create more inclusive and effective learning environments for all, regardless of whether they have access to formal education.
I am currently seeking a post-graduate career where I can apply my problem-solving skills, ability to manage projects, and technical communication expertise to promote education and learning endeavors. Outside of academic and research pursuits, I enjoy playing video games like Stardew Valley and rogue-like games like Slay the Spire and Balatro. I am also an artist who recently had her first solo show this past January 2025 and just received an honorable mention for another piece in my city’s yearly arts fest.
ARTS HERE! “Soon-ish” might be codeword for “its taken almost three years” but its up! Feel free to go check it out!
Other miscellaneous updates:
I am thrilled to share that I have successfully defended my PhD thesis “Exploring the Pedagogical Impact of Software Development Live Streams: Informal Learning Opportunities for Software and Game Developers”!
This was experience was both challenging and rewarding, and I couldn’t have done it without the incredible support system around me. To everyone who attended, your presence meant the world to me. A heartfelt thank you to my advisor, Dr. Paige Rodeghero, who guided me through this journey with patience and wisdom, and to my incredible committee members: Dr. Kelly Caine, Dr. D. Matthew Boyer, and Dr. Emma Dixon. Your thoughtful questions and insights have made my research stronger and me a better researcher.
I’m also endlessly grateful to the participants in my studies who shared their experiences, the students who took part in my live streaming course, and my family and friends who provided emotional support through late nights and moments of doubt. This milestone isn’t just mine - it belongs to everyone who helped me along the way. Now, on to new adventures, who is hiring!?