Welcome to Flash Focus! In this series, we introduce you to fascinating student Flashes from all walks of life.
Meet Ayna Tazhiyeva, a first-year double major in communication studies and international studies, from Turkmenistan, Central Asia.
“I chose these two because of how closely they are interconnected,” Tazhiyeva told Kent State Today. “I’ve always been deeply fascinated by different cultures, people and languages, and I wanted a path that brought all of those interests together.”
Moving to the United States marked a major turning point in her life.
“Every day I’m learning something new, like how people celebrate holidays or just how they talk to each other,” she said. “Even something as simple as a stranger smiling and saying 'hi' on campus was new to me, because that isn’t common in my culture. Every day feels important to me because I’m growing as a person, not just a student.”
She is a member of the Honors College and was recently inducted into the Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society.
Outside of academics, Tazhiyeva has taken on multiple roles on campus, working at the TechHelp desk in the library and also as a digital librarian assistant for the subject librarians on a project for the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). In fall 2026, she will start working as a resident assistant.
She also values staying active and exploring the community.
“I love staying active, so you can usually find me at the Rec Center or out hiking,” Tazhiyeva said. “I also like walking around downtown Kent to explore and try new food. It’s just a great way to clear my head when I’m busy with classes.”
Tazhiyeva has made many connections at Kent State, but her bond with Ogulkeyik Hudayberdiyeva, a senior communications studies student, has stood out the most.
“Ogulkeyik is like a sister to me,” Tazhiyeva said. “Since we're both from Turkmenistan, she helped me so much with moving to a new country and always made sure I was doing okay.”
She also expressed appreciation for Virginia Dressler, digital projects librarian and associate professor, who supervises Tazhiyeva at the library.
“Virginia has also been so caring and supportive since my first day working on the NEH project,” she said. “She helps me out all the time, and I'm just so thankful for everyone who has helped me become who I am today.”
Through multiple jobs and classes, Tazhiyeva encourages fellow students to practice self-care and consider balance.
“Just focus on noticing the small things every day and try not to compare yourself to anyone else,” she said. “Everyone is on their own path, and it’s okay to grow at your own pace.”
Are you a student interested in being featured in Flash Focus, or know a student who would make a great candidate? Send suggestions with name and contact information to kentstatetoday@kent.edu.