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“In 2024 I graduated high school and was uncertain about what will my future become. Later applied at a cafe as a clerk and unfortunately they were closing down but said they are gonna give my resume to the new owners. 2 months later I got the job as a dishwasher still with no direction. Within 2 weeks of working as a dishwasher I was pulled onto the line to assist the chefs as It was the head chef and sous chef as the only kitchen staff. As the months go on they taught me the basics and I fell in love with cooking, teaching me tips and tricks to how to make sauces. As the months went by I wanted more and wanted to grow so I searched for culinary schools near me and landed on I.O.T.. Starting in November, nervous just for the orientation walking around seeing the campus the more I was there the more comfortable they made me feel.
Finally entering the kitchens starting in Module 1 with Chef Chris, I was terrified being in a new place not knowing what to expect. Especially with the elevator speech talking to a large crowd to initiate talking to a boss/employer to present yourself. As practice took place the day came and of course with the odds in the large room, I was the first person to speak and finished my speech with all my points and on one try.
Now entering the kitchens meeting Chef Jason, Andrea, and Jermiah. Nervous seeing people around me. Soon within a few days I realized it was nothing how I could’ve imagined. Being able to display my skills learning all the necessities in the field and having people around me wishing the best for me, all trying to help eachother I realized this is a family. During my 9 months I grew close to all my classmates still speaking to most of them to this day. Even the bake shop with Chef Jen, going out to hangout and talk with all of them after my dishes was done it truly felt like a family. The chefs teaching me, and answering my 100 questions everyday, and not only showing me they are my instructor they are also my friends they have helped me become the aspiring chef I am today. Allowing me to extern at Tenaya lodge and within 3 days I was able to get hired on by the skills I learned at IOT. I am beyond blessed allowing me to move out on my site and build my future.”
Johnny Rey, CAD, Class of 2025
