Around April of 2015 I had the genius idea to try to graduate early. Holding three jobs and picking up extra classes to make this goal happen, I quickly became very stressed. I had to make sure none of my work/school schedules collided, register for my SATs, go to college tours, apply for financial aid, the list just seemed to go on for a lifetime. I entertained many options for my life; military, university, work for a year then go to school, then... culinary school. I worked as a host and server at a few restaurants already and wanted to be in the kitchen but no one wanted me because of my lack of experience. I fell in love with cooking in middle school when my mom's husband was deployed and I would cook for my mom and I so that she didn't have to. I loved making her happy through food. I got my first job in the best restaurant in my city as a garde manger cook. It was a real culture shock as I was not prepared for the kitchen life but I regret nothing. I have had beautiful opportunities and the privilege to meet some amazing people through this industry.
I applied to The Culinary Institute of America a few months before I got the kitchen job which made me worried that the school wouldn't accept me for no experience. I cried when I got accepted and cried even more when I got a full ride to the school.
June 2016.
Graduation from a high school that allowed and helped me to graduate and start my life a year early.
Moved into my first apartment downtown that I have the pride and honor to say that I pay for with the money I make by myself.
Growing up is very difficult, especially so young and quickly, but I would not change anything I have ever been through or done or any of my goals. I am grateful of every situation, good and bad, that I have been through as it has helped to make me the person I am today.
Olivia
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