Kayla is a Senior at CECS, majoring in Applied Artificial Intelligence. She is a Student Ambassador. Keep scrolling to learn more about her and her time at CECS!
What interested you about CECS?
I was drawn to CECS because of its forward-thinking approach and strong focus on artificial intelligence. What stood out most was how all-encompassing the college is, connecting AI to a variety of industries and real-world applications. To me, CECS represents the intersection of technology, creativity, and collaboration, offering a space to explore how AI connects to my interest in robotics and space exploration.
Why did you choose Applied AI as your major?
My passion for robotics and space exploration made Applied AI the perfect fit. I’m fascinated by how AI connects to robotics—especially through natural language processing (NLP) and other areas I’m studying in my courses. Many of the classes offered by CECS directly align with my goals, from conversational AI and data visualization to machine learning and human-robot interaction. Together, these courses give me the foundation to pursue the kind of hands-on, transdisciplinary work I’m most excited about.
What is your favorite part about being a CECS Student Ambassador?
As a Student Ambassador, I love getting to engage with both the public and other students—especially during events like Parents Weekend, Big Orange Preview, and gamedays. One of my favorite parts of the role is demonstrating the CECS robot dogs and seeing the excitement they bring to people.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned as a CECS Student so far?
I’m here to learn, not to know everything from the start. When I first started college, I felt pressure to come into classes with pre-existing knowledge. But through CECS’s flexible and supportive environment, I’ve discovered that the college provides all the tools and resources needed to grow, succeed, and apply learned skills and knowledge to my future. This has helped me build confidence and rekindle my spark for learning and academia.
If you could tell other students one thing about CECS, what would it be?
Get involved in CECS’s many events and programs like RISE meetings and CECS-giving. These experiences have allowed me to connect with professors and students from different majors, creating meaningful relationships and networking opportunities. My involvement in these activities is what opened the door for me to become a Student Ambassador in the first place. Don’t be afraid to get involved.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I hope to work in research and development at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, specifically in the Dexterous Robotics Laboratory, where I’ve already gained hands-on experience. I love the lab’s collaborative and innovative environment, because I can directly see how my work is contributing and my coding is making a difference in real time. With what I’ve learned from continue making an impact in the field of space exploration.