—Liam Kamp,
Culinary Arts Management & Applied Food Studies
Degree: Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Arts Management and Applied Food Studies
Major: Culinary Arts and Applied Food Studies
Campus: Hyde Park, NY
Hometown: Monroe, NY
How did you become interested in your major?
When I arrived at The Culinary Institute of America I knew I had a passion for food. But I wanted to combine that passion with other areas of study. During the associate program, gastronomy with ” href=”https://www.ciachef.edu/bachelors-degree-culinary-arts-ny/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>bachelor’s program for Culinary Arts Management, I had opportunities to take more diverse classes on these subjects and I jumped at the chance. It was in Ecology of Food with ” href=”https://www.ciachef.edu/bachelors-degree-applied-food-studies/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>the bachelor’s program in Applied Food Studies was announced I was quite upset that it was not an option sooner, but I knew I wanted to be involved. Where there is a will there is a way and I feel as though this school embraces that. I was able to work out staying an extra semester to pursue a double major here at the CIA, including Applied Food Studies and Culinary Management, and I am ecstatic.
Who most influenced your decision to pursue this career?
After my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimers someone needed to take over cooking Thanksgiving dinner. While my first attempt was full of many fails, it was the perfect place to begin and I knew with time I could get better. While my grandmother was always so supportive, the biggest influence in pursuing this career came from within myself. I saw food as a way to connect to others, help people, and learn a skill that will always be useful.
Did you have to overcome any obstacles or challenges to come to the CIA?
As a high school student I did not finish my junior and senior year at my best, which pushed me out of the running for several colleges I wanted to attend. After being stuck at home for ” href=”https://www.ciachef.edu/cia-faculty-profiles/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>faculty, all of them provide a wealth of knowledge. The people on this campus are some of the hardest working people I have ever met. They all seem to present this air of greatness and passion that is indescribable through words alone. It’s just such a positive environment and it’s constantly presenting new opportunities. I couldn’t picture a better community to be a part of.
Do you belong to any clubs or participate in any activities/sports on campus?
I have been a Resident Assistant on campus since eight weeks into the associate program and it’s been a wonderful ride. You really get to expand your leadership skills and it provides great opportunity to network with other students on campus. I am currently attempting to reform ” href=”https://www.ciachef.edu/library-learning-commons/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>tutor in the tutoring center here on campus and it’s been a really rewarding experience. It’s a chance to help so many people and give back the knowledge the institute has given you. I love when students have their own “A-HA” moment where it all makes sense. If you do well in a class and you can help other people succeed, you should take that opportunity.
What are your career goals or plans right after graduation?
After graduation I plan on pursuing a master’s degree in Food Studies. Although I am not sure where I am going to end up in the long run, I know I want to use food to make positive changes for everyone. Food is a very powerful vessel that makes its way into homes around the globe. It is something everyone needs to survive. I would like to improve food systems around the globe, provide more education to people about where their food comes from, and research more about the nature of progress in the food landscape.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering attending the CIA?
Be prepared, stay humble, and be passionate.