—Makenna Barnes,
Baking & Pastry Arts
Major: Associate Degree in Baking & Pastry Arts
Campus: St. Helena, CA
Hometown: San Diego, CA
How did you become interested in your major?
From a very young age I had a ” href=”https://www.ciachef.edu/why-study-at-the-cia/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>CIA because I knew it was the best place to go if you wanted to be successful in this industry. For freshman and sophomore year of high school, I went to the public school that I was assigned to by the district I belonged to. But since I wanted the best chance to get into the CIA, I decided on my own to find a new high school that had a culinary program. My parents did not like the fact that I was changing schools and told me that if I wanted to do this, I had to do all of the paperwork needed and complete the process myself. I did it all and got into Mission Hills High School in San Marcos, CA. It was the best decision I made throughout high school, and it prepared me for the CIA.
Why did you choose the CIA?
When researching culinary schools I knew I wanted to go to the best one out there. The the Greystone campus and immediately fell in love with the people, the school, and the town.
What do you like best about the CIA?
The chefs. When coming to the CIA I was a little scared that the chefs would be mean, but once I got here I realized right away that they are some of the most amazing people out there. I have made a bond with all of my chefs. They are willing to do so much for their students to help them get the best opportunities and to help them succeed in every way. ” href=”https://www.ciachef.edu/ca-campus-life/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>S.P.I.C.E. (Student Programming Igniting Campus Entertainment) board at the CIA at Greystone. I find ways for the students to help give back to the local community here in St. Helena.
What are your career goals or plans right after graduation?
I would love to have my own television show on the Food Network one day. I love to be in front of a crowd and perform, and I love to bake. So, combining both things would be a dream come true. I would also love to