What criteria should you consider when selecting a Culinary School ?
Selecting the right culinary academy can be critical to your future career. You should start your search with the same criteria you would use to narrow down a field of colleges, then analyze your short list with more a specific list of requirements.
Some preliminary considerations in choosing a culinary school include:
- How far away are you willing to relocate?
- How much tuition can you afford?
- Does the school offer scholarships?
- Does the school offer the kind of classes that interest you?
Once you have narrowed down the possibilities by geographic location, financial concerns, and curriculum, you should then evaluate your choices by focusing on:
- The school’s reputation in the industry
- The school’s reputation in your chosen specialty (i.e., pastry, ethnic cuisine, etc.)
- Successful alumni from the culinary institute
- How your qualifications meet the school’s entrance requirements
When you have selected 3 or so culinary schools that are a good fit for you, fill out your applications. And by all means, do not hesitate to aim high; you are just setting out on your future career, and you should be shooting for the best possible training in the culinary arts.
