Student Spotlight: Eric Jones ’27

Create a Life You Can’t Wait To Wake Up To

Author Annie B. Milostan ’25 is a Baking and Pastry Arts major.

Eric’s major and graduation year: Hospitality Management, 2027.

What did you do before coming to CIA:

I started my professional career as an electrician in the United States Marine Corps. Before coming to CIA, I was in construction sales. Selling insulation for commercial and residential buildings making my way to vice president of sales at Koala Insulation. After 10 years in the industry, I decided to take my passion as a home cook and come to the best culinary school in the world.

What made you choose CIA:

Back in 2010, my high school took a field trip to York Culinary Institute in Pennsylvania, which is where I first learned of CIA. I remember hearing the words “the best culinary school in America,” and I was immediately intrigued. Several years later, when I decided to go back to school, I did some further research about CIA. Not only did I find an impressive list of alumni and an extensive list of highly qualified instructors, but I also discovered CIA’s standard for success is unlike any other. Combining all these factors with many more, I knew there was no other choice.

How do you feel your previous career/break from schooling prepared you for life at CIA:

During my previous career, I was able to develop the skills and natural talents that I have learned throughout my life. I learned how to gain knowledge of what people are passionate about and looking to gain from an experience through questioning and active listening. Without my time in sales, I would not be in the hospitality program.

What has been the biggest adjustment for you here at CIA:

My biggest adjustment has been knowing when I cannot do it all. As a socially active person, Student Veteran Association (SVA) vice president, and aspiring business owner, I fill my plate very quickly and struggle to ask for help even though my support system (other students involved in my activities) are always willing to help.

What were your biggest concerns or anxieties about changing career paths?

My biggest concern was that my past would become something that would inhibit me from achieving my goals due to past business failures. I have learned that as you move into a field that you are passionate about, you will surround yourself with people who are on the same wavelength as yourself and even if you go down separate paths these people will always be there as a network to help and develop your goals.

What kind of support or guidance has been helpful for you at CIA with this decision about coming back to school?

I recently had a depressive episode where I needed counseling to guide me back on track and I used CAPS, the counseling and psychology services here on campus. The support to be vulnerable and heard was a positive and impactful experience that supports my view of this amazing community.

Do you have any advice for people looking to switch career paths or looking to come to CIA:

If you are in the position that I found myself in where you are looking to explore your passion in a controlled environment this is the place to be. The chefs view me and the other non-traditional students as guides for the other students and hold us to the standard set by our own agenda while maintaining the quality of education in our respective schools. Take the leap!