My name is Kayla. I grew up in Staten Island, New York.

I started cooking professionally around 5 to 6 years ago, but the love began in my childhood, with my mom and grandmother serving as my biggest inspirations. The moment it all clicked for me was when I started working in a different field. I realized that I didn’t enjoy it as much as cooking, so I asked myself, why don’t I stick to something I love instead of being miserable every day? So I decided to take up cooking professionally, and I went to the Culinary Institute of America. I’ve been in kitchens ever since.

I’ve learned more about cooking while working than I did in school. One of my biggest takeaways from culinary school was learning the industry’s business side, like marketing, and how to open a business.

For those who don’t know much culinary school could be a good starting point if you want to open up your own restaurant, but it’s not necessary for everyone who wants to become a cook or a chef.