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Return To Culinary Article Archive   How to Become a Chef By Ysolt Usigan From having written several bestselling books on America's vibrant restaurant culture, including the best seller 'Becoming a Chef,' to working at top restaurants, Andrew and Karen have earned the title of foremost experts on the secrets of success behind America's best chefs and restaurants. So we asked Andrew, what does it take to become a chef? Andrews Kitchen Tracks Andrews journey to become a chef began when he was a 15-year-old working at McDonalds. Although it wasnt culinary, it was a good start. He then moved onto working at the Holiday Inn in Cody, WY as a cook. At that point, he didnt become a chef just yet. Andrews first notable cooking position was in the kitchen of James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Schlesinger of the East Coast Grill in Cambridge, MA. He then worked for another James Beard Award winner -- chef Lydia Shire at Bilba. In 1992, Andrew moved to New York City and worked with Anne Rosenzweig. At the time, she was named First Lady Hilary Clintons Kitchen Cabinet of American chefs. She advised the White House on the transition from French menus, foods, and wines to menus of English-spotlighting American foods and wines. This all may sound very alien to you, but should you enroll in a culinary arts program at a reputable school to become a chef, youll get it in no time. Expert Chef Advice Andrew won a scholarship to study with Madeleine Kamman at the School for American Chefs at Beringer Vineyards. He attended, then earned his sommelier certificate from the Sommelier Society of America. Andrew knew understanding wine, as well as food is vital knowledge to become a chef. While Andrew doesnt have an actual culinary degree -- hes one of very few successful exceptions -- he recognizes the importance of one in order to become a chef. 'In this day and age, [a culinary degree] is virtually a prerequisite for landing a job in a top kitchen,' he says. 'While you dont have to necessarily get a four-year degree in culinary arts, a student who wants to become a chef should definitely go to a school from which the restaurants you aspire to work for seek out students for hire.' From getting in the kitchen game and working for some awesome restaurants, dont forget to take a detour to college or a culinary program, advises Andrew. He also suggests that a student aspiring to become a chef should also dine out in the very best restaurants (you can afford, that is). 'Go in, and have a few appetizers and a glass of wine at the bar,' he says. 'You can learn more about extraordinary cuisine and service from tasting and experiencing it.' If you want to become a chef, take Andrews advice to heart. Research reputable culinary arts programs, enroll, and dont forget to make the most out of the experience -- in and out of the kitchen. To find college and career schools near you, surf http://www.CollegeSurfing.com. © Copyright 2007 The CollegeBound Network All Rights Reserved NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active. About the Author: Ysolt Usigan is a frequent contributor to The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school or career thats right for you! Baking Course

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