Meet The Team
Lab Director
Youjeong Kim, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Journalism
School of Communication and Information
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Dr. Youjeong Kim’s primary focus is on the effects of immersive new media, such as virtual environments and video games. These technologies have significantly impacted communication dynamics and lifestyles. Dr. Kim’s research aims to provide theoretical insights into new media technologies, including interactivity and presence, to understand user behavior and enhance quality of life in health, education, and marketing. She also develops new media intervention programs for groups in need, such as older adults, obese children, and autistic children, to improve their well-being through innovative applications of interactive technologies.
VR Tech Lead
Silvia De Benedicts
MS Student in Computer Science
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Silvia is a Computer Science graduate student focused on building immersive digital experiences across web, mobile, and virtual reality. Blending creativity with technology, she designs interactive apps, games, and tools that transform learning, storytelling, and data exploration into engaging, hands-on experiences. Her work aims to help people explore, understand, and connect with the world in new and meaningful ways.
Lab Member
Suah Cho
PhD Student in Communication & Information Sciences
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Dr. Youjeong Kim’s primary focus is on the effects of immersive new media, such as virtual environments and video games. These technologies have significantly impacted communication dynamics and lifestyles. Dr. Kim’s research aims to provide theoretical insights into new media technologies, including interactivity and presence, to understand user behavior and enhance quality of life in health, education, and marketing. She also develops new media intervention programs for groups in need, such as older adults, obese children, and autistic children, to improve their well-being through innovative applications of interactive technologies.