Meet Gladys Bolding of BioLogue Laboratorium

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gladys Bolding.

Gladys, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Owing to my GRE scores for entry into grad school, I was recommended by my advisor to teach anatomy and physiology at the college I was attending. This opportunity led to mentoring international doctors and serving as head teacher’s assistant. The experiences gained prepared me for a position where I served as a science lab supervisor and managed labs for biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as instructing students in an array of science courses.

As a result of teaching, I discovered that a plethora of students were intimidated by the equipment and terminology in the sciences and that early intervention with exposure to science should occur if we were going to procure more people with STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) degrees in the pipeline. One year a vendor that serviced our lab equipment at the college was selling microscopes at a nominal fee, I decided to purchase one for myself as a Christmas gift. I was so impressed with the quality of the microscopes that I purchased several more and decided to create BioLogue.

A business whose mission is to offer authentic hands-on STEM explorations to youth ages 5-18. I partnered with several organizations to acquire access to youth and after serval years of mobile engagements, I decided to open a science lab that focuses on cultivating STEM skill sets that can be transferred into the workplace. BioLogue Laboratorium offers labs in microscopy, chemistry, microbiology, genetics, research, molecular biology and more. We are educating youth through authentic STEM applications and developing 21st-century innovators.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road. I have had to work on my business evenings and weekends following a regular work schedule in addition to working on my Ph.D. Moreover, I provided numerous pro bono experiences to expose my business and spoke at various events. Much of my time was consumed with networking and researching current content in science. Although the journey has been rigorous I would not change anything. There have been many lessons learned! I am creating my dream job!!

Please tell us about BioLogue Laboratorium INC.
BioLogue Laboratorium is an eleven-room lab space that provides authentic hands-on STEM explorations for youth ages 5-18. Youth can explore a myriad of STEM labs with exposure to lab equipment and protocols. As a scientist, I facilitate labs, manage the day to day operations and develop curriculum. BioLogue Labortorium is known for its cutting-edge advanced hands-on lab curriculums.

I am most proud of providing an immersive lab environment where youth can explore 21st-century career paths, perform research and volunteer at the facility.

What distinguishes BioLogue Laboratorium from others is that we are one of the very few organizations that offer STEM opportunities for 5-year-olds. We believe that early exposure builds confidence. Also when youth are exposed at an early age they can eventually make an informed decision about their career choice.

Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite memory from childhood is growing up with my mom in the Bronx (Co-op City), New York and living amongst a diverse group of people where I learned about and enjoyed different cultures. My neighbors were Asian, Latino, Caucasian, Black, and Indian. We all attended school together and participated in activities. It was a wonderful cultural experience. Great memories!

Contact Info:

• Address: 5322 Snapfinger Park Drive
• Website: BioLogueLaboratorium.org
• Phone: 770-846-0010
• Email: biologueprogram@gmail.com
• Instagram: biologuelaboratorium
• Facebook: BioLogue Laboratorium
• Twitter: @BioLogueLab

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