Welcome to Flash Focus! In this series, we introduce you to fascinating student Flashes from all walks of life.
Meet Lance Delisle, a junior aeronautical studies major with an aviation law and policy minor from Woodstock, Georgia, who balances his studies with his responsibilities as an Air Force reservist.
Delisle serves as a C-130 Loadmaster, responsible for preflight inspections of the aircraft and its cargo, managing weight and balance and overseeing aircraft handling, including the occasional airdrop.
“I’ve been in the Air Force for three years, taking a year and a half break before returning to college,” Delisle told Kent State Today. “Getting back to the classroom environment has been a challenge, but Kent has made the transition all the easier!”
Choosing Kent State University for its hands-on aeronautics program after taking a course in aviation law, he decided to add a minor in law and policy to deepen his understanding of the complex legal and regulatory aspects of aviation.
Balancing a demanding class schedule with multiple trips back to Georgia each year for military duty keeps Delisle busy.
“My professors work with me to ensure that I have enough time to complete assignments,” Delisle said. “I do the bulk of my homework in the airport before duty. It can be challenging, but getting a good grade makes it even more worth it.”
One of the most challenging parts of being a student in a new area, he says, is finding a place to fit in. Delisle credits students like his roommate, Brad, for helping him feel at home at Kent State.
“Brad quickly helped me learn the ins and outs of Kent State; the good restaurants, getting to know the area and tips and tricks about being a student here helped tremendously,” Delisle said.
Ohio’s unforgiving weather has also been a major shock, but if it weren’t for the snow, Delisle says he never would’ve experienced sledding growing up in a state that gets “half an inch of snow every four years.”
Outside of his coursework and military duties, Delisle can be found riding his motorcycle, hiking or flying.
While Delisle is uncertain if he’ll pursue a path in aeronautics or law after college, he thanks Kent State for supporting his unique circumstances.
Kent State continues to prioritize serving those who have served, ensuring that military students’ success is as efficient and rewarding as possible. Kent State is a gold-ranking Military Friendly School and was awarded Ohio’s Collegiate Purple Star designation in 2024 for its support for veteran and military students.
Through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Work-Study program, the Credit Transfer Office has additional resources to improve the overall experience for military students at Kent State by helping students apply military credits.
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.