Thinkin about a career change...

[lilpvazquez]

So I found this great website...I'm 26 (september)in 1 month, newly married,and currently work as a bank officer (and I love my job). I constantly watch Food TV and have a newly found passion for EVERYTHING CULINARY...I can't even imagine what it takes to be in the biz and be succesful but am definately looking into making this career move (gradually of course)...i read the message from a chef in the making and love the griity details about the biz ( I want to know the Pros and Cons to this career ) and what to expect..Im ready to hear the truth...cant wait to learn more...Culinary Schools, career choices, suggested "hands on" activities to expose myself, etc...Ur feedback for this novice is appreciated...thnx...Enid

[Steve A]

Buenos dias Señora,

There are a lot of pros and cons to this business. It's a job you can take home and not feel bad about, it's a job you can eat your mistakes. It's also a job that's hot, low paying, sometimes totally miserable and personally, I couldn't see myself doing much else.

There are numerous posts about folks your age or older transferring from one career to this. I did it too, age 37 after having retired from another career.

Schools? Miami's loaded with them. Even Johnson & Wales Univ has a campus in N. Miami (JWU N. Miami location). In addition to JWU, there are many other facilities available if you Google them.

Search around this forum and several others. Let the information help you make your decision. But use your head. You are in a 'safe' business now. The culinary world is anything but that.

Ciao,

[Mezzaluna]

Hello Enid and welcome to Chef Talk. As Steve said, hang out here and soak up information that'll help you explore the culinary world. Visit the Culinary students/culinary schools forum. Use the search button to find earlier topics we've discussed. Post your questions and get as much information as you need.

We hope you visit often to learn and share. Good luck!
Mezzaluna