A culinary experience
The Berkeley Adult School (BAS), is a well-known and well-regarded adult education program in the East Bay. The school’s Career Technical Education Program (CTE), parallels local industrial sectors – culinary, computers, graphic arts, custodial, accounting, health care, and Emergency Medical Transport (EMT).
Gabriela Ramirez explains the decision to enroll in the Culinary Program at BAS because, she “decided that it was time to find a job and do something for myself after many years of being home,” she says. “I knew that a certificate and adequate training could help me with better opportunities.”
Starting the program was difficult for Gabriela, going from staying at home to a school/study schedule, but she says it was worth it. She explains the culinary program, “consists of experiencing cooking in a commercial kitchen, with a chef/teacher in charge.” The program is a hands-on, real-life situation that will translate to the workplace. Gabriela says, “the teacher shows you the proper and safe way to use knives, prepare food, measurements in recipes, catering, even creating, packaging products, and how to start your own business”.
“It is never too late to start something new.”
Gabriela Ramirez, Owner, Gala Café
BAS is a very supportive school. “The teachers and staff are very friendly, flexible, and support you at all times,” she explains. “They understand that, as adults, we have different situations and responsibilities. Many of us are parents, have one or two jobs, or immigrants where English is not our first language.”
Registering for the program in August 2023, the eight-week course gave her the confidence to attend a second course in October 2023. After earning her certificate of completion, she and BAS became partners in setting up the Gala Café – the cafeteria on campus. Currently, she is the owner of the Café and continues to partner with the Culinary Program where, “some of the food the students cook is sold at the café and the profit goes to buying [supplies] for the kitchen and the school garden”.
Gabriela’s future goals are to continue to grow the Gala Café and expand the menu. As important to her, is learning more about owning a business. Her advice to others considering adult school is, “No matter how old you are, you can overcome your fears. It is never too late to start something new and most importantly, no excuses and make time for yourself.”
For more information on how Berkeley Adult School can help you achieve more, visit bas.berkeleyschools.net or call 510-644-6784.
Written by Katy Vivaldi
| Regions | Classes |
|---|---|
| Bay Area California | Careers in Business-Technology |
