Where & how do I start on the path to become a chef or cook?
Asked by Christina
I'm 16, & a junior in HS. I haven't taken any culinary classes & my grades aren't the best, but I LOVE to cook & make food. Is that enough?

Best Answer:
I am a former chef from Canada and if they offer classes at school have a look at them, and as for post high school the first lady is right, I would also look at Community Colleges and Culinary schools in your area or State, the CIA is very expensive, I worked with several over the year who attend it, and now it is over $50,000 for the 3-4 year AOS program, local schools and colleges will offer the same, maybe less prestige but the education and how you use it is more important, and a part-time job in a local restaurant with a trained chef would not hurt, and make your final decision easier.

It's a start. Paula Deen on the Food Network is not a trained chef, nor is Rachael Ray. But, they both worked in the food service industry. Try getting a job in a restaurant - at your age, you may only be able to hostess (seat people) but it's a good foot in the door. Another thing to consider - if you train as a chef in the US Navy, they will probably send you to the Culinary Institute in Hyde Park, NY. (Which is THE culinary school.) A friend of my parents' went thru the Culinary that way.
Answered by zippythejessi