Graduate Student Highlight: Yanshu Sybil Wang

Name: Yanshu Sybil Wang

Expected Graduation Date: May 2029

School of Journalism and Mass Communication PhD student Yanshu Sybil Wang was recently awarded the Fall Mini Fellowship from the UW–Madison Robert F. and Jean E. Holtz Center for Science & Technology Studies to support her research on AI literacy and its impact on adolescents. Her project explores how young people critically evaluate AI-generated body image content on social media and how their understanding of AI influences their trust in these platforms. In this Q&A, Wang discusses what receiving the fellowship means to her, her broader research interests and why she chose the SJMC to pursue her Ph.D.

Tell us a little about the Fall Mini Fellowship and what the award means to you:

The Mini Fellowship offered by the Holtz Center supports students engaged in STS-related research. This will allow me to take my research to the next stage by providing the resources and encouragement needed to refine my ideas and pursue them further.

What is the focus of your research?

I’m interested in developing dynamic governance frameworks to enhance the algorithmic and AI literacy of media platforms, while designing interventions to empower individuals to understand digital information dissemination and ensure equitable access to technological benefits. Specifically, this project explores how AI literacy influences adolescents’ ability to critically evaluate AI-generated body image content on social media, its impact on their trust in the platform, and how it shapes their digital appearances, forming the foundation for my future research.

Why did you choose UW-Madison and the SJMC for your Ph.D.?

I chose UW-Madison and the SJMC for my Ph.D. because of the collaborative and supportive environment fostered by professors and fellows here, as well as the wealth of resources available to advance my research.

What types of jobs are you looking for after graduation?

I will be seeking positions that enable me to apply my research findings to drive meaningful change.

What are your interests and hobbies outside of the SJMC?

I enjoy practicing yoga, exploring astrology, and spending time in nature.