“I chose the CIA because it is one of the best schools in the nation. I want to be the best and in order to do that you need to be taught and challenged by some of the best.”
CIA Student Bio
How did you become interested in food?
I’ve been interested in food for as long as I can remember. My mother was the one who influenced my love for food. She would have me help her bake for our get-togethers, and as I got older I earned more responsibility and she started teaching me how to cook. It was AMAZING! My husband has a BBQ restaurant here in San Antonio, and working there doing pastries made me finally find what I’m passionate about.
Why did you choose the CIA?
I’m in charge of pastries at the restaurant, but I wanted a challenge. I decided to attend culinary school to learn the basics of baking. Being a home baker is nowhere near being a pastry chef. So I chose the CIA because it is one of the best schools in the nation. I want to be the best and in order to do that you need to be taught and challenged by some of the best.
How have scholarships and/or grants helped you reach your goal of getting a CIA education?
They have been a huge help. Not being financially stressed is definitely something that keeps me going.
—Grecia Ramos, CIA baking and pastry arts associate degree student
What do you like best about the CIA?
The atmosphere, hands-down. Being here so far has been great, and I’ve met some really great people. Everyone is so welcoming and helpful. Our chef-instructor is amazing. She’s always willing to help and answer any questions we have. It’s nice to know that we are not just another number.
What is your favorite dish to make?
I love to make Tres Leches Cakes. I’m not a big fan of cake itself, but the fact that you get a very moist and sweet cake you can enjoy at any time is great.
What is the best lesson you’ve learned while at the CIA?
Teamwork makes the dream work!! Teamwork is key in everything you do here.
What are your career goals and how will your CIA education help you get there?
I would love to open a bakery, to be my own boss and be able to do what I love every day. Eventually I’d like to be able to help out my community as well as our homeless veterans.
What advice would you give to a new student or someone who is considering attending the CIA?
Don’t be scared; it will be the best experience you will ever have!
Grecia Ramos is a CIA student pursuing her associate degree in baking and pastry arts at the college’s San Antonio campus in Texas. She is from San Antonio, TX.