Why FSU?

When contemplating my school choices for a graduate degree, I researched the Department of Scientific Computing at FSU and the Department of Computational Science and Engineering at Georgia Tech. I was intrigued by the interdisciplinary research topics at FSU. I knew it was a good choice for my growing interest in graphics programming and my curiosity to use it as a scientific tool.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

I love learning, and I am passionate about creating something that will help many people. After completing my bachelor's degree, I knew I needed more academic training to do that in my field. Also, after seeing the record low numbers of African American women in my field, I am now even more motivated to pursue my PhD.

Importance of research and work

I develop physics-based fluid models to study wildfire spread visualized in an augmented reality environment. I specifically look at the atmospheric flow around a fire, which can help us understand the plume dynamics and what variables influence fire-induced flows. Using augmented reality can extend my research into labs and classrooms, providing a safe way to study a dangerous and unpredictable phenomenon.

Accomplishments during graduate school

I have attended my first international scientific conference, the American Geophysical Union 2021 Fall Meeting. Also, I received the American Geophysical Union Student Travel Grant and the Fellows Society Most Innovative Communication in STEM.

Advice for prospective graduate students

It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it. I have learned so much in my first two years and gained confidence as a researcher. I used to dread talking about my research or networking, but now I look forward to the opportunity to meet new people in my field and spread my work.

Career Aspirations

I want to work in private industry. I hope to be a part of big projects developing software or tools for extended reality media (virtual, augmented, and mixed reality).