We introduced the students to the shop and demonstrated the process of blowing a glass piece. I talked to them about my journey, having goals, and knowing what makes you different can actually be your best strength. I answered several insightful questions and then we broke up into groups.

In the hot shop, each student was able to make a glass flower and feel the way how glass moves, squishes and pulls. Most students are timid at first, but with help and guidance they gain confidence and are thrilled with the outcome.

The flower that is delivered to them later is a moment of this journey of overcoming fear, believing, and being proud of what you are able to do.

In the back fabrication room, the students paired up and worked together on various designs on the mosiac board. They decided on color patterns, designs, and who was doing what. It was fun watching the students work with each other. Each student experienced cutting the glass pieces into different lengths and then placing the pieces on the board with glue.

Gluing the pieces was fun, sticky, but rewarding when the design was coming clear.

The quarters were very tight and everyone had to work around each other, cooperate, and we had fun!

In the front room, Mrs. Jennifer Stimpson from the Hockaday School taught the students science lessons involving different metal oxides with hands on experiments.

The Links, Incorporated is an international, not-for-profit corporation, established in 1946. The membership consists of nearly 14,000 professional women of color.

Each student went through multiple stations where they learned about the science of glass, the properties and feel of working with hot glass, and also how to work together as a team and design a large project together.