Baking school rules

Baking School Rules: How to Succeed in a Baking & Pastry Program

Starting a degree program can be difficult at best, overwhelming at worst. This is especially true in the food industry where competition is fierce, and baking programs can be strenuous, requiring a lot of time and energy. Whether your long-term goal is to work in a high-end restaurant or to open your own neighborhood bakery, don't despair! Take a deep breath and keep in mind some of these tips for coming out on top in your baking and pastry program.

Take Note . . . Baking School is No Joke!

Take notes on everything! While reading course materials, listening to chef lectures and demonstrations, keep a notebook and pen (or a tablet or laptop) handy at all times to jot down key points. Whether it's a primer on how to properly blend dry and wet ingredients, or an advanced class on the chemistry of baking, don't take it for granted that you'll remember everything later. Detailed notes are the core of your self-made study guide. Good note-taking is a skill that takes time to develop, but it's worth it. Even after you finish your degree, you'll have a record of everything you've learned and have been trained to do for easy reference.

Pro Tip:
Whether you write notes by hand or type them during class on a keyboard, when you need to commit facts and numbers to memory, re-write or re-type your notes into a separate document. The act of reading and writing the material again helps secure it into your long-term memory. 

Learn by Doing. Practice Really Does Make Perfect.

A good chef isn't born, they're made through practice and effort. As you work through your degree, you'll be learning new techniques for creating all kinds of different baked goods. When it comes time for you to put your education into fruition in the "real-world," you'll want these techniques to be second nature to you. Commit even the smallest procedures and practices to muscle memory by repeating the movements and skills again and again. You may have access to kitchen facilities at the school for practicing, but if not, try implementing what you learn by making your own artisan bread recipe at home, or surprise your family with a delicious dessert of your own design. 

Pro Tip:
A good way to know if you really have something down is to try to teach it to someone else. Find a friend or family member who is not part of the program and try to explain how to make something to them. If you can help them understand it, then it's likely you already know it extremely well. 

It's Never Too Early to Make a Great Impression

You may be able to find an internship or apprenticeship program while you're still in school. Take advantage of those chances to make connections in the industry. Even if formal programs are not available to you, make your own opportunities. Visit local farmer's markets and volunteer your skills for charitable organizations. Doing these things whenever you can could put you in direct contact with the culinary leaders of your area. In addition, it lends insight into the trends and practices of consumers and potential employers in the region. It's never too early to make a great first impression.

Pro Tip:
Do your research. Nobody likes a cold-call. Don't be afraid to reach out to local businesses or organizations, but find out who in the company is best for you to talk to and the best way to contact them. Treat these contacts like a burgeoning friendship -- if they see that you're sincere, they may respond. 

Being a Baking & Pastry Chef Is About Having FUN!

You're here to learn, so have fun with it! The stresses and pressures of getting a degree can seem overwhelming at times, but don't forget to appreciate the little things and have fun with your classmates. Learning is a journey, so explore the sights, sounds, tastes, and new relationships this time in your life will afford you. This is the beginning of the next chapter of your life. Enjoy!

Pro Tip:
When things seem especially difficult, and we all have tough days, take stock of why you're in the program to begin with. Think about the long-term benefits that your education will have for you and your family. Certainly it's worth a few tough days of hard work now to reap the benefits of long term success in the future.

Baking School Is Waiting for You!

Are you interested in expanding your opportunities in the culinary industry? Contact ECPI University today about earning a degree in Baking and Pastry Arts in as little as 15 months. Our year-round schedule can make all the difference for you and your success. Contact ECPI University today! It could be the best decision you ever make! It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

Learn more about ECPI's College of Culinary Arts TODAY!

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