by Arvin Hernaez, December 19, 2018

After my final practical, I reflect on my time at Kendall College. From the moment I came in for orientation, I knew it was the place for me.  After finishing the academic portion and looking ahead to my internship, it is important to recognize that the successes I have garnered are directly influenced by the people who help me on this journey.

Thank you to all my professors and chef instructors. I came in to Kendall knowing nothing, and I’m proudly leaving for my internship feeling that I am truly capable of being a chef. the lessons you have taught are much more than just the core culinary skills needed in the kitchen. You taught me to push myself, to focus on what I want, and that I am capable of so much more. Your investment in my success is truly appreciated, and I cannot thank you enough.

To my classmates, especially my cohort of six, I could not have reached the success I have without your support. You made Kendall College feel homey and built confidence in me that I lacked. You pushed yourselves to be excellent students, which indirectly made me want to work harder, so I could be as good of a student as you are. You believed in me, and wanted me to succeed which made a world of difference to make me a better culinarian. I hope that I can one day return the favor. I am indebted to all of you, and I look forward to seeing what great things you’ll bring to the culinary world.

Finally, thank you to Kendall College Trust. Your scholarship has helped me a great deal financially, but just as important, it has given me a sense of pride. It showed me that if you work hard and truly make an effort, people will notice. I am so proud to be the recipient of the Ronayne and Forrest Leahy-Thomas Scholarship and I hope to represent the Kendall College Trust and the Leahy-Thomas family in an admirable way they deserve.