“Being in the bachelor’s program with a major in business management has definitely opened my eyes to everything necessary for opening a business. All of the classes are very helpful in guiding and teaching the process of what it takes to run a business.”
Major: Bachelor’s Degree in Food Business Management
Campus: Hyde Park, NY
Hometown: Brewster, New York
How did you become interested in food?
My love of food started when my nana and I would make desserts and watch the Food Network every time I went over to my grandparents’ house.
Why did you choose the CIA?
I chose the CIA because it is the world-renowned culinary college and I felt the most at home here when I was touring colleges.
How have scholarships and/or grants helped you reach your goal of getting a CIA education?
Scholarships have definitely made it possible for me to receive an education here at the CIA.
—Lauren Brugnatelli, management degree student at The Culinary Institute of America
What do you like best about the CIA?
My favorite part about the CIA is the sense of determination and drive all of the students and faculty have.
Do you belong to any clubs or participate in any activities/sports on campus?
I belong to the Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC) and am captain of the volleyball team.
What is your favorite dish to make?
My favorite things to make are cakes because I love decorating them.
How has your CIA education prepared you for the business side of food?
Being in the bachelor’s program with a major in business management has definitely opened my eyes to everything necessary for opening a business. All of the classes are very helpful in guiding and teaching the process of what it takes to run a business.
What are the best lessons you’ve learned while at the CIA?
The best lessons I’ve learned at the CIA are being organized, efficient, passionate, dedicated, and positive.
What are your career goals and how will your CIA education help you get there?
My career goals are to work for well-known places while I am young to get more experience, then eventually become an executive pastry chef of a country club.
What advice would you give to a new student or someone who is considering attending the CIA?
I would say that taking notes of everything you learn is important because otherwise you will forget many things the chefs teach you. I would also say to make the most of your experience because time goes fast and you can’t get it back.