Behind the Line: Chrissy Camba
Topic: Your Career
Culinary School
Q: A lot is said about the allure of culinary schools. But are they really all that? How do you feel about the state of culinary schools in America today? How would you improve them, or would you change them at all?
Oh boy - this question. I'll be honest, I don't think it's worth it to go to culinary school unless it is one of the top culinary schools in the country or abroad (ie. CIA). What I've heard from most culinary graduates is that culinary school wasn't worth it, they're so far in debt and the money paid wasn't worth what they learned. What I've seen from many culinary students/graduates is lack of preparation - many schools DO NOT teach their students what the "real world" is like: long hours on your feet, no breaks, heat, work, work, work. Let me know if I am wrong about this, but I am beginning to think that the "state" of culinary schools today is to just get the money. It's disappointing and pisses me off after hearing so many graduates say it was a waste of money/they didn't learn anything. Schools need to really prepare and be honest about the real kitchen world - it is a school's duty to have their students graduate ready for the real world. And with the amount paid for tuition, don't you think that is a given?
Q: One of the key parts of culinary school is the internship/externship. If you went to culinary school, where were your most prominent internships?
I did not go to culinary school, however, in high school...when I thought I wanted to be a neurosurgeon, lol, I was able to shadow Dr. Gail Rosseau...who, at the time, was doing the new procedure of operating without having to shave the patient's head.
Q: Studying abroad. One of the golden opportunities that comes with culinary education. Have you studied abroad for anything? If so, where? And what'd you do there?
during my senior year in high school, i stayed in germany for a month with the czgolla family b/c i was in german club. the czgollas offered me strawberry vodka every night, lol. it wasn't really studying...i feel like it was more of a vacation with friends. we went to all the historical places, walked around a lot, ate glorious food and popped by austria. i almost forgot - i got my tongue pierced at a festival! my mom wasn't too happy. every morning i would go down the street and order ten pieces of bread (in german). the breakfasts were fantastic - cheese, meat, bread. the salads were fantastic - meat, dressing...lol. And, my friend's host family made the best cherry pie i have ever eaten in my life.