Chapter 11: Passion for the Kitchen

I remember the first day of Culinary I (Chapter 10: 2010), I had to say my name and my intentions of this major as an icebreaker. With no hesitation, I said to become a General Manager of a hotel was my long term goal. But on the first day of Culinary II I had to do the same thing (it was the same Chef, therefore same procedures for the first day) and I replied with either to become a Chef or a General Manager. At that point, my thoughts on my career were uncertain. Then this quote came into my mind, "If it is something you like and can make a career our of it, then go for it."

I finally found that "something" when I enrolled in Culinary II. I had a chance to work in the hotel. But that was not where I belong. The work is easy and I am actually good with people, but I just cannot imagine my entire life doing that. Since Culinary I, my curiousity in gastronomy only grew stronger. Then Culinary II came, and that was a complete different ball game. There was a Dining Room class going on at the same time, and we do production for that class. There are actual guests attending the dining room. So our food are being critiqued. It is the times where our techniques truely shines, any flaws will be noticed immediately. Major concentration is crucial! Never in my life would I have thought my passion will be in the kitchen. Back in Dewey I had a chance to take the culinary classes but I dropped it after first cycle, and now it came right back at me.

Another interesting class was Dining Room (I had to take that class as well). At first, the professor was like a monster. But as time went by I started to like her, a lot. I guess we met up to her expectations and standards so everything went easy. This class was still a hassle though. Memorizing the descriptions and trigger ingredients for each dish on the menu was insane, especially when I was not assigned as the server but my luck brought me to that position when someone is absent (have to expect the unexpected). Have to know and sell the wine and desserts were the worse. But I grew to fall in love with this class. I enjoyed every minute of it and the last day was hard to say goodbye.

And last but not least, the baking class. Such a discouraging class. When I first stepped into the bake shop I enjoyed it a lot. Or so I thought, but I guess it was only because of the super nice and chill professor. Not so lucky this semester. The professor for Baking II was not the worse and I like him and all, but working with him was rather difficult. His style is very unique. The excitement that got my adrenaline rushing at first was no longer there. Trying to get a good grade was the only thing on my mind. I did leave that class with a few new techniques and recipes though. I guess that was all that mattered. I did enjoy the times when he was not yelling at me though. Overall it was a new experience and I COULD say it was kind of a blessing to have worked with him.

It was a peaceful but yet intriguing semester. I definitely learned a lot. Oh right, the most amazing thing about this semester was that I put myself out there. There were many volunteering opportunities and I did not just look past them. But until next time! Enjoy!

Fabolous ft. Jeremih - Its My Time