Francesca grew up in Albert Lea, Minnesota where she attended high school.  Francesca is double majoring in Chemistry and Mathematics at the University of Iowa.  Following graduation, she plans to attend graduate school for chemistry or geochemistry with a preferred focus on projects with environmental applications.  Eventually, her goal is to work in a national lab contributing to synthetic chemistry projects. 

“I first got involved in the Glass Facility after taking the course Advanced Methods in Chemical Research, taught by Benjamin Revis in the winter session of 2017-18.  The course taught the basics of scientific glass blowing and provided hands-on glassblowing experience.  Since then, Benj has mentored me and allowed me to work on my glassblowing skills and volunteer in the Glass Facility.  My time spent in the Glass Facility has not only been enjoyable, but I have learned a great deal about glassblowing, how the Glass Facility operates, and the resources it provides to the University.” – Francesca Eckstrom