Welcome to Flash Focus! In this series, we introduce you to fascinating student Flashes from all walks of life.
Meet Daycia Clifford, a junior mechatronics engineering technology major from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a passion for learning about new technology.
Clifford is a research assistant in the Extended Reality (XR) Research Lab, focusing on the integration of virtual reality for aeronautical training.
“My job in the XR lab is my passion. I love to learn about new technology,” Clifford told Kent State Today. “My major was computer engineering, but I decided to switch because I would like to pursue a career in robotics in the future.”
Her lab responsibilities include designing 3D assets of aircraft components, monitoring aeronautical students during their VR sessions and producing technical documentation.
Outside of her job, Clifford enjoys volunteering on campus at Flashes Fighting Hunger and the Women’s Center.
“I like to attend campus events, most of them hosted by Black United Students,” Clifford said. “I also recently joined the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals.”
The summer before her freshman year, Clifford met Benjamin Kwasa, Ph.D., administrator for the XR lab.
“Since then, he has given me many opportunities to expand my knowledge,” Clifford said. “Kwasa and Stephanie Fussell, Ph.D., provide valuable mentorship and research opportunities that prepare students for academic and professional growth.”
In 2024, Clifford received a $5,000 scholarship at the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference, which she calls one of the most impactful moments of her academic career.
“The conference is the world’s largest modeling, simulation and training conference,” Clifford said. “I was able to meet many companies and experience networking opportunities.”
Clifford looks forward to her future in robotics as she continues to stay engaged on campus and learn about new technology.
“I chose Kent State because I love the culture and how the university values diversity,” Clifford said. “In my future career, I want to be able to develop new technology and this gives me a chance to do that by learning new software and using it for training.”
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.