Cierra Brown , 19 , of Meridian : “ I enrolled in Culinary Arts because of my grandmother . Her teaching me over the years on how to cook inspired me to want to do this .”
Anissa Campbell Green , 49 , of Quitman : “ At the time when I learned of the Culinary Arts Program , I was a stay-at-home wife . I saw this as an interesting challenge even though at my age it seemed daunting .”
Jaidyn Hover , 17 , of Bailey : “ To maintain a stable job once I ’ m out .”
Olivia Keyes , 19 , of Meridian : “ I have a real passion for cooking . The kitchen is my safe haven . This seemed to be a perfect fit for me .”
Camille McKenna , 23 , of Pachuta : “ I tried to fight my passion for so long because I know how women get treated in this industry , and I knew I probably wouldn ’ t make as much money as a nurse or an aerospace engineer , which I previously pursued . I finally accepted my purpose .”
Jayla Osborne , 19 , of Silas , Ala .: “ I enrolled in this program because I am just really passionate about food , and I couldn ’ t see myself in any other program .”
Johnathan Torres , 19 , of Meridian : “ I like to cook , and this class will help me learn better ways to do it .”
Shayla Wilson , 21 , of Meridian : “ To learn more about the cooking world and hopefully get a foot in the door to work with famous people and to one day own my own business .”
So , what are their plans after their culinary studies are completed ? Many want to open their own bakery , catering businesses and restaurants . One wants to work as a private chef for a company or a famous individual .
Still , there ’ s the satisfaction of gaining new skills that leads them . “ I ’ d like to go through another culinary / business program and learn under as many people as possible ,” said McKenna . “ I will eventually start my restaurant and learn more along the way how to become the most successful version of myself .”
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