Essays

CHTAEF / Johnson & Wales University Scholar 2009
DENYSE FINGAL, Aruba - Report
I started my career in Culinary Arts when I was 15 years old. To see back how I started is a lifetime memories and experience. Years go by so fast, and I am still passionate of what I am doing. Being 8 years in the food industry made I love it more. To see people enjoy your food, see people come together because of your food, is a good feeling. People satisfaction to enjoy a good meal is important for me, and makes me feel proud.

When I go home for a visit, I always go back to EPI-Hospitality Unit to visit and share my experiences and my good times spent at Johnson & Wales University.

Going back gave me flashback of good old times, and sweat of hard work, for me to be where I am right now. “It’s an honor”

I will always be thankful to EPI-Hospitality Unit Aruba for connecting me with CHTA Education Foundation, because if it was not for them I did not even know about CHTAEF. On my graduation ceremony in Aruba, I have announced in my speech that I am going to Miami the U.S.A., to pursue my dreams and my career. If it was not for CHTAEF and the JWU scholarship I would never have never been here as it would have been too much to pay for a private education. CHTAEF helped me continue my career. A ‘thank you’ is difficult to show.

This is my last year at JWU C-4 class, and I am experiencing the best time ever, with great chefs and classmates. We really are enjoying our last year together here at JWU, and make the best of it. The best part is the faculties are preparing us with more leadership skills/ management skills, so we can be ready for the real world.

Being able to finish my Bachelor degree with a 3.03 GPA is a pride that I will always have with me.

My future goals are moving to Houston Texas, continuing my Master degree in Hotel Restaurant Management to have graduate level of education, and start a life as a professional. My dream is to one day I can open my restaurant in Aruba with Italian/ Caribbean flavored food with a nice atmosphere and ambiance, beautiful surroundings for private parties like, wedding, first communion, thanksgiving etc that I can cater. A restaurant all in one. That is my Dream. God bless my family for supporting me throughout my career and bless myself for good things in life. With positivism, everything is possible.

Many Thanks to CHTA Education Foundation and Johnson and Wales University.


Written by
Denyse Fingal

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