Culinary Institute of America Top Questions

If I could go back to high school I would envolved in as many culinary programs as possible to better my knowledge of the field that I wanted to go into. Also maybe instead of working four jobs for 3 years to pay for school, maybe possible finding a better paying job or find out ways of going to school on a scholarship so I would be a lot less stress while attending college.

What would I tell the high school senior version of myself? Don't worry that you don't know what course of study you want to persue, or that you aren't even sure what you want to do. There's plenty of time in life to figure out exactly what you want to do. Experiment- try new things, visit places you've never been before, and, most importantly, don't rule out possible education choices or career options just because they don't go along with the image you want to portray right now. You might be scared when you do start college; you might be nervous that you won't make friends, that you'll have a hard time living away from home and being completely responsible for yourself, or that you might just be awful in your studies. Don't doubt yourself. Try your best, work your hardest, and remember that patience and fortitude really do conquer all things. If you believe in yourself and truly want to succeed with the path you are making for youself, you will be all right.

First on the topic of finding the right college for most there is no such thing. Every school has pros and cons differences in the programs and the faculty that drives them. All you can do is keep an open mind as you look for schools that seem appealing. Or else you may be shaken by reality once you?ve actually spent real time at you dream school. However if you wish to go into a specific field such as the culinary arts finding the right college will depend on how hard you are willing to work. Note this is a new kind of work, no longer are we talking term papers and oral presentations. Welcome a world of pressure like you could never imagine a place where your success is measured by your ability to give it all you have. Consequently, as you try to make the most of your college experience all you have to do is not take opportunities for granted. That was my mistake freshman year, I ignored the seminars, I chose not to attend the cooking demonstrations. That was my largest mistake and if you plan to truly succeed you have to seize every opportunity.

When looking for a college to attend, pick the one that best suits you. The one you can see yourself succeeding in and enjoying the whole time there. Going to college and getting a degree is only half the fun. With it comes new knowledge, experience and friends.

Do a college visit! Ask students what they think about the program. Bring your parents along. Use a planner, and take as much of your education as you can with you, pay attention! You'll wish you had paid more attention when you've finished!

Pick a school that you love, not just academically. You need to love the library, the rec center, and everything in between. Take multiple tours, and be prepared for the cost of the school. Its worth every penny if you love what you are doing and where you are.

I would advise parents and/or students to determine 1, whether or not the school has the academic program that the student needs. 2. whether or not the school is located in a physical environment that the student will find enjoyable. 3. whether or not the cost of the school will result in the student leaving school with an enormous debt load 4. whether or not the school has those extracurricular activities such as sports in which the student wants to participate. 5. whether or not the school's reputation will help or hinder the student in either finding employment after collele or going to graduate school. Above all, will the student think well of himself or herself by saying: "I go to X college." Being accepted at the college that is your first choice is a validation of the student's life up until the age of 17 or 18. If a student winds up at a college that he or she does not respect, the probability that the student will not do well increases exponentially.

I would advise parents and students when choosing a school to be fully commited to your education. You will only get out of school what you put in. There are all types of schools in the world and any one of them could be an ideal fit for the student, but if the student isn't sure of why they are going to that school in the first place than it might be more difficult to find their niche at that particular school. I would also reccommend to do a little career searching before you commit to a school. I knew what I wanted to do when I decided on what college to attend, that's why I went to one of the best culinary schools in the world. I believe that students whom have somewhat of an idea of what they want to do when they graduate are at an advantage to those who might spend years at school trying to decide on a major. This also will help to narrow down the search on finding the ideal school for that particular student. To the students: while at school, utilize your library!

My advice would be to start looking early. Try to have at least an idea of where you want to go by your junior year of high school. Then, create a list of your top choices. List the pros and cons of each choice, including specific detail. After you have a list, start making visits. Try to visit every school on your list, even if you think you'll love it. You may find out on the tour that you won't fit in well, or you simply don't like the campus. When you've finished your visits, start applying. Applying early decision is always a good idea, because you find out early enough that you can always find other schools if you need to. When you receive your acceptance letters, base your decision on where you'll be happiest. It won't matter that your tuition is less if you are miserable. To make the most of your experience, get involved! Join a club or go to a campus event. Make friends in your classes and dorm. Focus on school work, but always make sure to leave some time for yourself, and have fun!

I would say to parents that they should encourage students to go to the best school that supports their career choices no matter the price. I feel that everyone should have the right to go to the school that they want as long as they are qualified. I dont feel that money should be judged as a qualification to attend any school. To the students I would advise you to have a financial plan, especially if you come from a family of need. Dont accept going to a trade school or community college based on money, rather go to whatever institution you like based on its vision, benefits, and commitment to your education. You have to have a financial plan before you attend college in order to start, attend, and become a succesful alumni. There is money out there, you just have to find it. Better yet, there are people at your school financial aid offices that can help you, but you have to find them too. Know you resources and use them wisely. Take advantage of college programs in highschool, grants, scholarships, etc. Dont get stuck in student loan hell like i did. Have a financial plan for school.