Dinner with a Brainiac

Last night I had the privilege of participating in Oakdale Joint Unified School District's G.A.T.E. (Gifted And Talented Education) Event: "Dinner with a Brainiac", in Oakdale, California. 

This event allows professionals within the community the opportunity to share their profession, as well as college experiences, and tips for success, with high academic achieving 6th Grade Students, all while sharing a meal together. You can imagine my surprise when I was invited to participate in this event as a "Fashion Designer Brainiac"! 

How awesome to have an opportunity to inspire children to pursue careers in fashion!

Other professionals in attendance included a retired school principal, and a genetics scientist, among many others! Several high school students also were in attendance, which gave the younger students insight into what to expect during middle school and high school years. 

Seating was pre-assigned by G.A.T.E. Teacher, Mrs. Combs. Each table included two Brainiacs, and three or four 6th Grade Students. We began the evening by enjoying a Dinner Theater! A play was presented by student performers based on the book, Fish in a Tree, written by author, Lynda Hunt. While watching the lovely play, we ate a satisfying meal comprised of pizza, chips, water, and cookies! 

After the play, we introduced ourselves to the others at our table, discussed our thoughts about the play, and then participated in several activities. The activities focused on time management, how to deal with failure, and how to make good friends. It was really nice to get insight into the children's way of thinking, and their perception of themselves. I was surprised to learn that some of the children felt pressure to succeed, and had a hard time dealing with failure. As a parent, I learned so much! 

My favorite part of the night was seeing the way Mrs. Combs interacts with the students. Mrs. Combs is a wise woman who inculcates the value of each individual, promoting self-worth, and balanced confidence in these youngsters. You can truly sense her genuine love for her students. It is undeniably refreshing to see educators, such as Mrs. Combs, who care so much! 

"Dinner with a Brainiac" was a fantastic event that I am privileged to have been a part of! I am now inspired to participate in many more career events held within my community! 
Perhaps you are too! 

Related Links: 

A Photo Journey... My College Career as a Fashion Design Student

Guest Speaking at California State University Sacramento- Summer Fashion Academy 2018

An Interview with My First Sewing Student!