Do you have to go to college to become a pastry chef?Do you have to go to college to become a pastry chef?
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| By Marylynn (Marylynn) on Tuesday, February 27, 2001 - 09:54 am: Edit |
I'm only a college freshman, but I have been thinking about maybe becoming a pastry chef. I'm not too sure how to go about doing that though. I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice on what would be the best thing for me to do. Thanks a lot.
| By Debord (Debord) on Tuesday, February 27, 2001 - 04:09 pm: Edit |
The best advice is to first get your bachelors degree in something practical. Then just get a job in a kitchen for several months doing anything. To see if you like it before you ever consider paying money to attend a cooking school which is NOT neccessary! This is not a well paid field and you have to like long hours, working weekends and nights.
One day if you do become a good pastry chef you'll have so many more options if you understand business and you'll have the book smarts to back your talent up.
I know this sounds negative BUT I SWEAR it's the best advice! Get a four year degree, it will NEVER be a waist of time!
| By Panini (Panini) on Sunday, March 04, 2001 - 07:38 pm: Edit |
GOOD ADVICE! A business background I think is ideal. This industry has become bottom line. If you are a smarter business person than the person over you, you should be able to neutralize any situation ie. labor hours,COGS,compensation.
This is not directed at anyone on this site, but I've heard chefs complain about everything above,not enough help, long hours etc.The truth is most don't know their departments numbers and the executive chefs reap the benefits. The exec's will let you work understaffed and underpaid and put up with your complaining as long as they keep making their numbers and bonuses.
Good Luck
Stay in school
| By Peachcreek (Peachcreek) on Monday, March 05, 2001 - 03:51 pm: Edit |
Maybe try working in a kitchen while you are in college. Focus on getting your degree. If you still find foodservice to your liking after you graduate, then go for it. If you decide that foodservice isn't what you thought it was, at least you have your degree. Give yourself some time and experience in the foodservice industry before you make a big decision!
