What is needed to become a Chef?

I am a student at Chapman University writing a report on Culinary Arts. I was wondering if anyone could send me some general information on what it takes to become a chef, what they enjoy about the industry and maybe some of the scenerios that happen behind the scenes. I would glady appreciate
any information that you can relay to me. Thank you for taking time to read
this letter.

Becoming a chef is not an easy task, it takes a lot of serious dedication to learning and perfecting your skills as a chef. In most cases a person will start working with a chef early on learning the basics and learning good habits. During this time a person should be reading as much as they can about the art of cooking. School can be a good asset, but it is not necessary. I actually think you can learn what you need to know by just working with a good chef and reading. If you have the time and money then school is nice. From here a cook should just keep growing and have goals in mind of where they want to be in 2, 5 and 10 years.

There is a lot more to it, more than I could get into here, but that I think is a good basic overview.

Being insane also helps.

It's a lot a work to become a chef. To become a good chef, you have to perform everyday and put on a show. You must have a lot of passion. It's not a question of social position or money, but rather, a question of the love for what you do.

Total dedication, if you are not serious about it, then you will fall flat on your face. Your right to Andrew, a little insanity can carry you a long way in this business.