I took pottery classes at Keiko Ikoma’s pottery studio. I’d always wanted to learn pottery but had never done it before. I was intimidated going in on my first day because I was a total beginner, but all of my worries quickly dissolved as soon as I stepped into the classroom. Ikoma Sensei is super kind and patient, and everyone in class is very friendly. It’s a very communal space, with everyone chatting while they work. Ikoma Sensei has a curriculum for beginners, which was really nice because it provided me guidance on what pieces to make. I made a vase, three teacups, a rice bowl, and a large bowl. Rather than working with a moving wheel, everyone at Ikoma Sensei’s classroom does hand-building, so it’s a slower process. It was very therapeutic to make everything step by step. I now want to continue pottery! My advice for incoming students is to not be afraid to talk to the people in your CIP. If you are more social and talkative, others will also be more social in return. Get to know the people in your CIP and don’t be shy about asking questions!