Essays

KORAN KONG, Trinidad
CHTAEF / INTERVAL INTERNATIONAL 2009
Making the decision towards pursuing a culinary degree from a reputable school, such as Johnson & Wales meant making sacrifices for an ultimate goal. There are many expenses incurred, whilst being a student. Managing and meeting my expenses for two years has been challenging. CHTA Education Foundation and Interval International have been major contributors to my academic progression. Their contributions have eased my financial burdens, which lessened some of the challenges faced while at Johnson & Wales. I have been blessed to have received scholarship assistance twice consecutively, from Interval International, through the CHTAEF. By extension, this support and act of faith has kept me motivated throughout my school career thus far.

Enrolling at Johnson & Wales has been an unforgettable experience. In my opinion, being a full-time student at this school leaves little room for wanting more opportunities. JWU, Miami promotes professionalism amongst the student body and fosters an environment for the growth as a professional in my industry. In this environment I have been able to network with successful individuals in my industry, through references and school faculty. As a Caribbean student it was not difficult to find others, who share similar values and to meet so many new individuals of high caliber with diverse backgrounds.

Entering my senior culinary labs, there is no doubt that the course work that we have covered has benefited me. Because of the experienced Chefs and professors on faculty as well as visiting Chefs and industry leaders, I am continuously working on building a foundation for my future, learning both theory and advice of life lessons of seasoned industry leaders.

On completion, of my degree it is my intention to continue to grow within the Caribbean Hospitality and Tourism Sector. It is only through my growth that I will be qualified and able to serve the Caribbean community. This growth involves the exchange of teaching and learning which, in life, this exchange should never be stagnant. It will be the end of my course at JWU, but my work has only just started, at home. As a whole, our Hospitality and Tourism sector is rich with culture and talent, it is up us to work together to channel this ability, educate ourselves and raise the bar, to showcase panache on an international level.

Thank you to CHTAEF and Interval International for allowing my dreams to be realized.


Written by
Koran Kong

< Return to Essays Main Page

For more information please contact: foundation@caribbeanhotelandtourism.com
T:305 767 4211 | F:305 716 9138 |