Essays

RODRICK BEAZER CHTAEF / INTERVAL INTERNATIONAL SCHOLAR 2009
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I continue to make great strides in my education and my quest for success. I am now embarking on my eighth semester at the Art Institute of Atlanta as of October 5th 2009. I was at a point in my academic career where funds were not forthcoming. I did not want to fall short of my dreams of becoming a qualified chef; hence, I applied to the CHTAEF for financial assistance. I was very fortunate to be one of the 2009 scholars chosen by CHTAEF and supported by Interval International. The funds were paid directly to my tuition, covering two semesters. During that time I have made great advancements in my studies and was given several opportunities to represent the school.

The Culinary program at the Art Institute of Atlanta pays great attention to details, giving students the knowledge, skills, and opportunity to be successful. The school is very diverse, bringing together different cultures, beliefs and races. It provides an opportunity to be exposed to various cultures. I am an active member of the International Student Club which provides one avenue for such exposure. As a club we plan various activities in and around the school environment. The most popular activity is Caribbean day. On this day we prepare various cuisines from each Caribbean island and give the campus an opportunity to sample Caribbean delicacies.

Words cannot express the level of maturity and knowledge I have gained since I embarked on this journey. It is an opportunity I wish all aspiring chefs could have. I now have a better understanding of being a team player, wines & spirits, front of the house management, managerial aspect of a hospitality establishment, how to maximize profits and control costs, sanitation, nutrition, and a better understanding of various cuisines. I still have a lot to learn, and I am committed to the task at hand.

Upon completion of my studies, I will have completed my concept for the kind of establishment I plan on opening in the future. As a requirement to graduate from this school, in order to complete the program students must create a concept for a future establishment. Also, with experience I will be able to function in any area of a hospitality establishment. The hospitality industry in the Caribbean has seen drastic changes in the approach of how people perceive the industry. As an Antiguan & Barbudan I want to work very closely with the key sectors, to help educate, train, mentor, and develop our brand of the hospitality industry.
I am very grateful to the CHTA Education Foundation and Interval International for this opportunity.


Written by
Rodrick Beazer

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