The Heart of Innovation: Michie Leccese's Journey Through Gaming, UX, Accessibility, and Mental Health

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At the crossroads of academia and innovation at USC, Michie Leccese, a dedicated second-year PhD student, is redefining the boundaries between psychology, gaming, and user experience (UX) research. Her journey, marked by curiosity and determination, traces its roots back to her foundational years in psychology. But it was during this academic pursuit that Michie discovered her true calling wasn't nestled within the confines of clinical practice. Instead, she was attracted to a field where understanding the human mind and creating digital interfaces come together – the rapidly growing area of UX research.

As we sat down to discuss her journey, Michie's eyes sparkled with passion when she spoke about gaming – a field she views not just as a source of entertainment, but as a medium with profound therapeutic potential. "Video games have this unique ability to connect, to heal," she shared with a contagious enthusiasm. "They're not just games; they're gateways to understanding ourselves better." Her research transcends the academic; it is her quest to unlock the healing power of gaming.

But Michie's story is not just about gaming and mental health. It's deeply intertwined with her commitment to accessibility – a cause she champions with personal dedication and professional rigor. Recalling her experiences working with the Deaf community, Michie's voice resonated with conviction as she described her vision for inclusive gaming. "It's about creating a world where everyone can game," she said firmly. "A world where the joy of gaming is not limited by physical abilities." This mission, nurtured during her time at UCLA and now a guiding principle in her work, stands as a testament to her unwavering belief in inclusivity. Michie has also spent her summer as an Activision intern working in their UX Research department as a moderator.

Michie navigates the worlds of academia and industry with skill, blending her responsibilities as a PhD student and teacher with her practical experience in the gaming industry. "It's like living in two different worlds," she explained, "but it's exhilarating. Each world informs and enriches the other." Her ability to balance teaching and applying UX principles in the gaming industry is not just a professional requirement; it's a tightrope walk she navigates with grace and insight.

Michie opened up about her personal battle with dyslexia, shedding light on how AI has become an integral tool in her life. "Dealing with dyslexia can be a daily challenge," Michie reflected. "There are days when finding the right words seems like an insurmountable task. That's where AI, particularly tools like ChatGPT, step in. They help me organize my thoughts, find the right language, and essentially, make sense of the chaos dyslexia can sometimes create in my mind."Michie explained how  transformative the role of artificial intelligence is in overcoming personal obstacles and enhancing learning experiences. 

Looking ahead, Michie envisions a future where gaming shatters its traditional boundaries. "Imagine a world where games are not just for fun but also a means to heal," she mused. Her vision goes beyond gaming; it's about reshaping our interactions with digital experiences. Michie's story highlights the importance and impact of accessible gaming and how people use video games to explore their imaginations. It’s our job as researchers to ensure that we provide the best experience for gamers from all different backgrounds.

In our conversation, Michie Leccese's journey emerged as more than a tale of academic achievement. It's a narrative woven with threads of passion, resilience, and a quest for a world where technology and human experience intersect harmoniously. Her path from psychology to UX research, her advocacy for accessible gaming, and her personal triumphs intertwine to remind us of the profound impact one individual can have in the evolving landscape of technology and human empathy. The products that we create can impact the lives of many. 

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