As midterms approach each semester, scheduled exams and assignment due dates all increase the level of stress on campus.

Umoja student Shale’ Lakhan, who is also a student ambassador, wanted to do something about it, so she planned a Terrarium Workshop as a stress-relief activity. 

Calming music played in the background as participants arrived in the Student Union Monday afternoon and sat down at tables filled with the supplies needed to build their terrariums. Immediately, everyone began socializing with each other as they waited for instructions.

Once the Umoja workshop got underway, Lakhan explained how to create a terrarium and fielded questions from more than a dozen participants. In addition to providing the materials, small figurines and stickers used to create and decorate the terrariums, Lakhan also enjoyed building her own as she helped others through the process.

“I’ve never built a terrarium and wanted to try something new,” said Sierra Churchwell, a friend of Lakhan, who enjoyed the activity.

Participant Leah Johnson thought the experience of creating a terrarium was “interesting and fun.”

As the workshop came to an end, some participants offered their thanks while others stayed to help with cleanup and finished catching up with one another.

“I am hoping that everyone feels relieved,” said Lakhan at the conclusion of the event.

Najah Lawrence certainly did: “I loved it. It was very zen and relaxing.”

Lakin was happy the event was successful and hopes to offer a similar workshop in the future.

“I didn’t expect so much people to have so much fun,” said Lakhan. “I would want to do this again with more materials.”

LMC hosts a variety of events each semester. Check the Calendar under News at losmedanos.edu for future workshops and activities.