Meet WebstaurantStore's 2021 Foodservice and Hospitality Scholarship Winner
Name: Sonya Carey
Age: 35
Hometown: Rockford, IL
Program: Master’s in Hospitality and Tourism at USC
Some spend years searching for their calling, but for Sonya Carey, it was clear from the start. As a little girl, teachers repeatedly sent her home with a letter pinned to her jacket, scolding her for refusing to share the play kitchen with other students. Sonya looks back with amusement, “I was pretending to cook up some good eats!” Unsurprisingly, she grew up to be a cookbook author, former Aramark Food Service Lead, and manager of food services in the Chicago Public School District (CPS). The road from make-believe chef to hospitality industry leader was difficult, but Sonya turned each loss and challenge into a passion for giving back and pursuing excellence.
In Sonya’s birth home, food brought the family together around the stovetop. Some of her earliest and fondest childhood memories are of standing on a chair cooking dinner with her mother. While the Midwest is her native land, her mother instilled an adaptable Southern spirit and raised her on soul food cuisine. Red beans and rice with andouille sausage is still her favorite dish. In her mother’s kitchen, Sonya learned that nourishing and delicious meals can be born out of simple and inexpensive ingredients.
When Sonya lost her mother and was placed in foster care, her love of cooking subdued from a rolling boil to a slow simmer. Years later, her adoptive mother and grandmother reignited her passion, and Sonya has kept the flame burning ever since. She went back to school and received her AS in baking and pastry in 2012, achieved a BS in Hospitality Food and Beverage management in 2016, and eventually worked for Aramark in Las Vegas as a Food Service Lead. In 2019, Sonya walked away from the stable job she loved to be a part of something much greater than her own comfort: helping provide meals to school children in the Chicago Public School District.
As a food service manager within the Chicago Public School District, Sonya works with cafeteria staff to provide students with nutritious breakfasts and lunches at no cost to their families. It hit home for Sonya when her orientation leader stated that, for some students, the meals provided are the only meals they’ll receive each day.
Sonya is on a mission to secure and improve dining services for her school district. Many studies prove students focus and retain information better if they’ve eaten. Providing sustenance is just the baseline of what Sonya wants to achieve. Her vision is to expose students to new foods they wouldn’t have access to or knowledge of otherwise. She also wants to teach them how to make conscious food choices and ethical sourcing decisions. A CPS initiative that taught students how to grow their own food and incorporate what they grow into their meals inspired her to take this innovative practice with her as she advances in her vocation.
In addition to her impressive career, Sonya channeled her passion for creating nourishing meals out of simple ingredients into a cookbook, Make It or Bake It: Recipes for Transitioning Foster Youth. Sonya’s time in foster care gave her empathy for foster youths who leave the system without the social and life skills needed for adulthood. Her cookbook speaks directly to the hurt and trauma of those who have felt forgotten, helping them learn to care for themselves and heal through the restorative art of cooking.
The WebstaurantStore scholarship will help Sonya pursue a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management with an emphasis on Food and Beverage at USC. Through this program, Sonya will learn how to serve students on a higher, more impactful level. She will graduate equipped to plan, create, and implement innovative policies and procedures for food service within schools that make a difference in the lives of students. The little girl who wanted the play kitchen all to herself is long gone. She is now an inspiring woman opening the kitchen doors to all.
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Hospitality Scholarships
From the joy of savoring a delicious meal to the memories of staying at a five-star hotel, the hospitality industry makes life richer and better for us all. Mastering the crafts that create these experiences comes at no small price. The cost of education can be a significant barrier for many students who dream of pursuing a career in the hospitality industry. Thankfully, many scholarship opportunities are available to help aspiring hospitality professionals achieve their goals. We will explore some of the best hospitality industry scholarships. Click the links below to skip to the hospitality or culinary scholarship that most interests you: WebstaurantStore Scholarships James Beard Foundation Scholarships C-CAP Scholarships Les Dames d’Escoffier Scholarships American Culinary Federation Scholarships The National Restaurant Association Scholarships Food Dreams Scholarships AHLA Foundation Scholarships Yum-O! Scholarship The Trotter Project Scholarships WebstaurantStore Scholarships WebstaurantStore scholarships are an excellent opportunity for students majoring in culinary arts, hospitality management, or a closely related field. As part of our commitment to supporting hospitality professionals, we offer two $5,000 grants to eligible students to help further their education. One of the standout features of our scholarships is they are open to students at various stages of their educational journey. Whether you've already begun your secondary education or you're in the exciting early stages of choosing the right program, you can still apply for our scholarships. We recognize the value of non-traditional educational paths and believe everyone should have equal access to opportunities. As such, our scholarships are open to students who achieved their diplomas through a GED program or non-traditional learning environment. The WebstaurantStore Hospitality Scholarship: awards a $5,000 grant to assist one bright student each year in pursuing their dream of becoming a chef, restaurant owner, or hospitality professional. It is open to any student, regardless of ethnicity, race, or background. WebstaurantStore Diversity Scholarship: awards a $5,000 grant to an exemplary ethnic minority student seeking an education in the hospitality industry. We believe in fostering diversity and inclusion, and this scholarship aims to support students from underrepresented backgrounds. James Beard Foundation Scholarships The James Beard Foundation, named after the renowned American chef and food writer James Beard, is a non-profit organization that celebrates, nurtures, and honors America's diverse culinary heritage. Established in 1986, the foundation is committed to providing resources, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities to aspiring chefs and culinary professionals. Recipients of these scholarships gain access to a vast network of industry leaders who can provide guidance and support throughout their culinary journey. Many scholarship recipients get to participate in exclusive events, workshops, and culinary experiences organized by the James Beard Foundation. By offering these scholarships, the James Beard Foundation aims to foster diversity, innovation, and excellence in the culinary industry. Through financial support and mentorship, the foundation empowers the next generation of culinary professionals to make a lasting impact on the culinary world. The James Beard Foundation offers three types of awards: Scholarships: Their scholarships are cash grants that apply to tuition. Tuition Waivers: Certain educational institutions offer tuition waivers in partnership with the James Beard Foundation. The waiver may be for one full year or additional years of training. Work Study Grants: The Jean-Louis Palladin Professional Work/Study program offers grants to working culinary professionals. C-CAP Scholarships Founded in 1990, the Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) is a workforce development nonprofit that provides culinary and life skills to over 20,000 middle and high school students annually. C-CAP's scholarship program is the largest independent culinary/hospitality scholarship program in the country. They partner with 36 post-secondary educational institutions to help students further their education and training in culinary arts and hospitality management without taking on insurmountable debt. By partnering with reputable institutions, C-CAP provides scholarship recipients access to high-quality education and industry-specific training. The C-CAP recognizes the importance of providing financial support to talented individuals who may not have the means to pursue higher education in the culinary arts. Each institution they partner with offers a different level of scholarship. They have several partners who offer full-tuition scholarships, including the New School of Cooking, the Institute of Culinary Education, The Culinary Institute of America, and the International Culinary Center. Les Dames d’Escoffier Scholarships Founded in 1976, Les Dames d’Escoffier supports women in the culinary arts and hospitality industry. Les Dames d’Escoffier (LDNY) has 44 chapters in the USA, Canada, Mexico, France, Italy, and the UK. One of the key focuses of Les Dames d’Escoffier is advocating against sexual harassment and other problems women face in the culinary arts and hospitality industry. The organization believes in creating a safe and inclusive environment for women to thrive and succeed in their careers. By raising awareness and providing resources, Les Dames d’Escoffier aims to combat these issues and create positive change within the industry. In addition to advocacy, Les Dames d’Escoffier provides financial support to women who aspire to pursue careers in the culinary arts. Since 1977, the organization has awarded more than $2 million in scholarships to over 1,000 recipients. These scholarships help women overcome financial barriers and pursue their dreams in the culinary arts and hospitality industry. LDNY’s Mentoring Program is another valuable resource provided by Les Dames d’Escoffier. After they award a scholarship, the Mentoring Committee reviews and matches each recipient to a Dame in her chosen career field. This one-on-one mentoring relationship allows recipients to receive guidance, support, and advice from experienced professionals. American Culinary Federation Scholarships Established in 1929, the American Culinary Federation (ACF) is a premier professional chefs’ organization with more than 14,000 members spread across over 170 chapters nationwide. One of the key offerings of the ACF is its regional and national events, which provide professionals in the culinary industry with opportunities to network, learn from industry experts, and stay updated with the latest trends and techniques. Additionally, the ACF offers certifications that validate the skills and knowledge of culinary professionals, helping them stand out in a competitive industry. To further support culinary professionals in their educational pursuits, the ACF collaborates with the American Academy of Chefs (AAC) to offer scholarships through the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation. These scholarships are available for apprenticeship programs, certificate programs, and post-secondary degree programs. Apprenticeship Program Scholarships: the ACF Education Foundation offers scholarships of up to $1,500. Certificate Program Scholarships: the ACF Education Foundation offers scholarships of up to $1,500 for those pursuing a certificate program. Post-Secondary Degree Scholarships: The ACF Education Foundation offers scholarships of up to $2,500 for those pursuing a post-secondary degree. Back to Top The National Restaurant Association Scholarships The National Restaurant Association is a professional organization that caters to restaurant owners and managers. It offers various aids and programs that advance the careers of hospitality professionals. The National Restaurant Association’s Restaurant & Hospitality Leadership Center: They partnered with the Department of Labor (DOL) to establish the first nationally recognized and credentialed apprenticeship program in the hospitality industry. This program is best suited for businesses that don’t have a formal employee training program or are seeking supplemental, hands-on guidance and mentorship to add to their current training. HOPES: This program provides employment opportunities to individuals formerly involved in the justice system. By offering training and support, HOPES helps these individuals break the cycle of incarceration and find meaningful employment in the hospitality industry. ProStart®: This is a nationwide, two-year high school program. ProStart® reaches approximately 130,000 students in over 1,700 high schools across 50 states, Guam, and the District of Columbia. It offers a comprehensive curriculum covering a variety of topics, from culinary techniques to management skills. ProStart® provides students with real-life experience opportunities, such as internships and competitions, allowing them to build practical skills that will benefit them in their future careers. Food Dreams Scholarships The Food Dreams Scholarship is a program offered by a non-profit organization that is dedicated to bridging the gap between underprivileged students and the working culinary community. Founded in 2016, this organization aims to help these students access culinary education and provide them with various externships, mentorships, and career opportunities. One of the key offerings of the Food Dreams Scholarship is its availability at some of the finest culinary schools in America. Students who are accepted into this program have the chance to attend prestigious culinary institutions such as the Culinary Institute of America and the Institute of Culinary Education. The Food Dreams Scholarship provides an extensive post-graduate mentorship program. Recipients will leave school and have guaranteed entry-level positions in one of Jean-Georges' restaurants worldwide, gaining invaluable hands-on experience and learning from some of the best in the industry. AHLA Foundation Scholarships The AHLA Foundation exists to help the hotel industry recruit, retain, and advance its employees. They are accomplishing this goal through scholarship initiatives and career development programs. The AHLA Foundation spends over a million dollars on academic scholarships annually. They offer two types of scholarships: self-nominated and school-nominated: Self-Nominated Scholarships: Any student currently enrolled in a US college or university and seeking a hospitality-related degree can apply directly to AHLA to access over $500,000 in scholarships. The following scholarships are available to any hospitality student: Hyatt Minority, American Express, Ecolab, Incoming Freshman, Banks Brown Graduate, and Opening Doors to Opportunity Scholarships. School-Nominated Scholarships: Schools affiliated with the AHLA foundation select students to receive AHLA’s Academic Scholarship Program, Community College Scholarship Program, Arthur J. Packard, and Rama Scholarships. Any student nominated by their school is encouraged to also apply for a self-nominated scholarship through the AHLA foundation. Yum-O! Scholarships Launched in 2006, Yum-o! is a nonprofit organization by renowned chef and television personality Rachael Ray. It's dedicated to empowering kids and their families to develop healthy relationships with food and cooking. Yum-o! has three main initiatives: cook, feed, and fund. The 'fund' initiative helps aspiring culinary professionals reach their food-related career goals. Yum-o! partners with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation to fund scholarships for students enrolling in restaurant or food service-related programs. This financial support enables students to pursue their passion for the culinary arts and turn their dreams into reality. To be eligible for a Yum-o! scholarship, applicants must be a high school senior, GED graduate, ProStart student, or first-time freshman enrolling in a restaurant or food service-related program. The Trotter Project Scholarships The Trotter Project scholarships provide opportunities for potential culinary arts students, hospitality management students, and baking/pastry arts students to receive financial support for their education. With the financial support provided by The Trotter Project Scholarships, students can focus on honing their skills, expanding their knowledge, and making meaningful contributions to the culinary and hospitality industries. These scholarships recognize the talent and dedication of deserving students and serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of Chef Charlie Trotter and his commitment to excellence in the culinary arts. The Charlie Trotter Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship offers deserving culinary arts and baking/pastry students attending any accredited college or university in the United States up to $10,000 to follow in the footsteps of one of the industry's most iconic figures. Chef Charlie Trotter was known for his innovative approach to cooking and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of culinary excellence. The Homaro Cantu Scholarship: Hospitality management students may also be recognized through The Trotter Project. Named in honor of The Trotter Project's founding president, Homaro Cantu, this scholarship provides up to $10,000 in financial assistance to hospitality management students. The only requirement to apply is attending an accredited college or university in the U.S. Back to Top Whether you're trying to decide whether you should apply to culinary school or you're midway through your program, use this list of hospitality scholarships to gain valuable financial assistance. Debt doesn't have to be part of pursuing your dreams. There are multiple organizations and opportunities to help you complete your education and provide post-graduate mentorship.
Becoming a Pastry Chef: From Student to Professional
Nowadays, there are a lot of television shows about cakes, pastries, and desserts. It can be easy to fall into fantasies about sparkling sweet confections, drizzled with chocolate and sculpted from fondant. However, becoming a pastry chef is hard work. You'll have to create a variety of pastries and gain experience using different pastry supplies. In addition, if you don’t receive a scholarship, there can be a heavy financial burden. Before you take the leap into a new career, it’s a good idea to do some research first. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to attend baking and pastry school, the best way to get a sense of the experience is to talk with someone who’s lived it. We had the pleasure of interviewing Kajal Narang, who graduated from the pastry program at L’Academie de Cuisine and is now working as a pastry chef at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center. Her journey from pastry student to pastry chef required a lot of hard work and dedication. Through this interview, she gave us an idea of what it’s really like to attend pastry school, and what advice becomes especially useful as you enter a career in this industry. Pastry Chef FAQs We asked Kajal some of the most common questions an aspiring pastry chef might have before enrolling in a culinary program. Here’s what she had to say. Q: How long is pastry school? A: The pastry program at my school was only 1 year long and 6 months of that year was at an externship at a hotel, restaurant, or catering company of your choice. 6 months will give you the foundation you need, but it won't make you an expert in all things pastry (or savory). Working on your skills outside of school will only help you succeed further in the industry. Q: What hours do pastry chefs work? A: Sometimes I have 15 hour days because as soon as I get out of school, I go to work at a bakery. By the time I get off work, my back hurts and my feet are aching, but I live for that feeling. I thrive off of the exhaustion and it feels like an adrenaline rush. It takes up most of my day so I don’t sit around all day watching Food Network, just dreaming of making those dishes. Q: How much experience is required going into pastry school? A: I know there are some of you out there who don’t know whether or not to choose culinary school because of your level of experience. While experience is probably one of the most important things in food service, it is called culinary school for a reason; if you knew everything, then you wouldn’t be there. I’m not very experienced myself, but I learn new things every single day. I firmly believe that if you are passionate about cooking or baking, then culinary school is definitely the way to go. Going to culinary school has helped me get a basic understanding and knowledge of pastry. It laid out a foundation for me that has ultimately helped to shape my career into what it is today. I was provided with the tools and knowledge from some great instructors to kick-start my career in the industry. I feel that going to culinary school has helped me learn and understand the functions of ingredients and which flavor profiles work and don't work together. Q: What is the best part of pastry school? A: The one thing that I love about the food industry, other than the food itself, is the people. I’ve never been at a school where I see ages range so widely. Anyone can enter the food industry at any age. I encounter people of all different skill levels and different walks of life, and it’s great! I personally love meeting new people, so working with my classmates or eating lunch with the culinary students is always a blast. I love hearing others’ opinions about food and school, because everyone’s view is different. Additional Tips for Success in Pastry School Arrive early and help out whenever or wherever you are needed. Develop relationships with instructors as well as classmates. These are the people that will help you and motivate you to succeed in the industry. Keep up with the notes and homework. Making delicious pastries is only one part of culinary school; writing recipes and maintaining your notebook is a big part of your grade. Work hard and stay humble. Graduating from culinary school doesn't automatically make you a chef. Know when to ask for help and realize that the chefs that you are working with or learning from have worked long and hard to get to where they are today; learn as much as you can from them. As you can see, becoming a pastry chef requires a lot of dedication, hard work, and long hours. But if you truly have a passion for the craft and are willing to put in the time and effort, pastry school can be a rewarding experience. We are glad to hear that Kajal is enjoying her career and we wish her all the best for her future. Rolling Pin Shop Now Flour Sifter Shop Now Measuring Spoons Shop Now Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Shop Now
How to Become a Chef
Becoming a chef is a dream for many individuals with a passion for food and a desire to create culinary masterpieces. Regardless of whether you are just considering the start of your culinary journey or looking to advance your career in the food service industry, there are several steps you can take to become a chef. Below we’ll provide the most important information you need to know to become a chef, including exploring the requirements for becoming a chef, the various career paths available in the culinary industry, and the essential skills and qualities that can set you apart in this competitive field. Shop All Chef Clothing & Apparel Use these links to learn more about how to become a professional chef: What Skills Do You Need to Be a Chef? Chef Education Requirements What Does a Chef Do? How to Become a Chef FAQ What Skills Do You Need to Be a Chef? Becoming a chef requires a diverse skill set that goes beyond just knowing how to cook. To succeed in the culinary world, you must possess a combination of technical, professional, and business skills. Let's take a closer look at each of these skill categories: 1. Technical Skills These skills encompass a wide range of abilities, including knife skills, cooking techniques, and food preparation methods. A chef must be proficient in various cooking methods such as sauteing, braising, baking, and grilling. They should also have a deep understanding of food safety and sanitation practices to ensure the highest level of hygiene in the kitchen. 2. Professional Skills Professional skills a chef must possess include effective communication, teamwork, and time management. Chefs often work in high-pressure environments where clear and concise communication is crucial to ensure the smooth operation of the kitchen. They must also be able to collaborate with other kitchen staff and work as part of a team. Time management skills are essential to meet the demands of a busy kitchen, as chefs must multitask and prioritize tasks efficiently. 3. Business Skills Chefs need to have a good understanding of food costs, menu planning, and inventory management. They must be able to create menus that are not only delicious but also financially viable. Understanding the cost of ingredients and how to price a menu accordingly is essential to running a profitable kitchen. Chef Education Requirements Becoming a chef requires a combination of formal education and hands-on experience in the culinary arts. While there is no specific degree outside of a high school diploma or GED equivalent required to become a chef, most aspiring chefs choose to pursue a formal education in culinary arts to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. Also, depending on which type of chef you wish to become, education requirements may vary. We've listed the different types of ways you can gain a culinary education and learn the essential skills of the industry: Culinary School: Many chefs start their culinary journey by attending a culinary school or institute. These institutions offer a variety of options, including certificate programs, associate degrees, and bachelor's degrees in culinary arts. Culinary school programs typically cover fundamental cooking techniques, food safety and sanitation, nutrition, menu planning, and kitchen management. Students also have the opportunity to gain practical experience in a professional kitchen environment. On-the-Job Training In addition to formal education, hands-on experience is crucial for aspiring chefs. Many chefs start their careers by working in entry-level positions in restaurants or food service establishments. This allows them to learn the ropes of the kitchen, learn culinary terms, develop their cooking skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the industry. Through on-the-job training, aspiring chefs can work their way up to more advanced positions and eventually become executive chefs or sous chefs. Apprenticeships Another route to becoming a chef is through apprenticeships. Apprenticeships provide aspiring chefs with the opportunity to work alongside experienced chefs and learn the trade through practical training. Apprenticeships typically last for a few years and cover various aspects of culinary arts, including food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen management. This hands-on approach allows apprentices to develop their skills while also gaining valuable industry connections. What Does a Chef Do? A chef is a culinary professional who is responsible for overseeing the preparation and cooking of food in a commercial kitchen. They are skilled in various cooking techniques and have a deep understanding of flavor profiles, food safety, and kitchen management. Below we’ve listed some key responsibilities and tasks that a chef typically handles: Menu Planning - Chefs are responsible for creating and developing menus that suit the needs and preferences of their customers. They consider factors such as seasonal availability of ingredients, dietary restrictions, and food trends to curate a diverse and appealing menu. Food Preparation - Chefs are masters of their craft when it comes to food preparation. They are skilled in cutting, chopping, marinating, and seasoning ingredients to enhance their flavors. Chefs are also proficient in various cooking techniques such as sauteing, grilling, baking, frying, and braising. Recipe Development - Chefs are often responsible for creating new recipes or modifying existing ones to add their own unique twist. They experiment with different ingredients, flavors, and cooking methods to create innovative and delicious dishes that keep customers coming back for more. Food Presentation - Chefs pay great attention to food presentation and the visual appeal of their dishes. They understand the importance of plating techniques and use their creativity to present food in an aesthetically pleasing manner. This not only enhances the dining experience but also adds to the overall perception of the restaurant. Kitchen Management - Chefs are in charge of managing the kitchen staff, including sous chefs, line cooks, and prep cooks. They delegate tasks, ensure that the kitchen operates efficiently, and maintain a clean and organized work environment. They also oversee inventory management, ordering supplies, and maintaining equipment. How to Become a Chef FAQ Here are some of the most common questions relating to becoming a chef: How Much Does it Cost to Become a Chef? While the culinary industry offers exciting opportunities and the chance to work with food every day, it's important to understand the financial investment required to pursue this profession. Costs associated with becoming a chef include potential tuition expenses, supplies and equipment, learning materials, and certification costs. These costs vary based on factors such as location, personal preferences, and individual circumstances. While the financial investment required to become a chef may seem significant, consider the long-term career prospects and personal fulfillment that becoming a chef can offer. How Long Does It Take to Become a Chef? Becoming a chef is a journey that requires dedication, passion, and a commitment to honing your culinary skills. Culinary programs typically range from 6 months to 4 years in duration, depending on the level of education you wish to achieve. In addition to formal education, gaining hands-on experience in the kitchen is crucial to becoming a chef. Many aspiring chefs work in training for several years learning various techniques, understanding kitchen operations, and developing a strong culinary repertoire. Do You Need to Go to Culinary School to Be a Chef? While culinary school can provide aspiring chefs with valuable skills and knowledge, it is not necessarily a requirement to become a successful chef. Many renowned chefs have achieved their culinary prowess through hands-on experience and self-study. On-the-job training that teaches the valuable culinary skills required is another viable way to become a chef. Becoming a chef is a rewarding and fulfilling career choice for those looking to enter the culinary industry. Although the process of becoming a chef may require a lot of education and training, it provides a rewarding career and a great outlet for creativity. Following the correct steps and attaining the necessary skills when becoming a chef helps ensure you have a successful career in this competitive industry.
