Hi! I need some help. I am a married mom with 2 kids, 26 years old. I've been thinking about becoming a chef for the past 5 years and have finally decided to go for it. The problem is, how do I start? I don't know any chefs, and I need to know what it takes to become a chef. I am also wondering if age prevents one from being successful in the culinary world. Is it too late? Or can anyone who loves to cook and is serious about learning do it too?

[Pete]

Well, this is a great place to start. Look at many of the past threads on here. It will give you an idea was what it takes to be a chef, the kind of money you can expect to make, whether to go to school or not, and many other topics so look through many of them. I most important thing to remember when deciding if you want to be a chef or not is that the love of food and cooking does not always equate into a love being a chef. Spend some time in a restaurant kitchen. See if it's something you like, or can handle. Many chef's are willing to take on someone who has a desire to cook and learn. Call around and speak with some chefs. I bet you find at least one who will help you out.

[This message has been edited by Pete (edited July 09, 2000).]

[youla]

I am a married mum of two and a my work as a chef has its ups and downs with family life...sound advice from PETE, the love of food and cooking does not equate to being a chef...it is very strenuous, stressful and manual work...I work long hours , and I am cooking for someone else [a large hotel whose customers can request whatever and our clients are very mundane in their choices!]...sure we have input on the menus...but if I said to you I am really passionate about food and cooking...you might be disappointed. On a brighter side there are the high points...doing a chefs table...or having clients compliment on the food and ask for recipes...there are a lot of high points but not to disillusion you it goes with a lot of heavy work

[youla]

PS..I have turned down 3 promotions due to family it is the other side of the story the hours you work ....with the promotions I would never have been there for my kids..as it is I work 10 to 14 hour days.