Having to switch my diet at such a young age has had so much impact on my life and my flavor pallet overall. I spend a lot of time doing research on the gluten free lifestyle and why isn't there more inclusive restaurants for all different types of diets that can ensure healthy, amazing, and safe food. I was diagnosed with Celiac disease and Crohn's disease at 14 years old. At this point in my life I had always been overweight but I never knew it was because I was eating the wrong things. All the wheat, pastries, were getting stuck in my intestinal tract, creating sores allowing me to bleed out. I was neglecting myself and ignoring the bleeding thinking it would just go away on its own. Once I was diagnosed the doctors put me on a medication called Remicade, it had steroids in it that would cause me to be extremely hungry. I started to crave gluten, sneaking in the kitchen late at night just eating whatever was available. At this point I knew I had to start making meals that would sustain me enough to last throughout my cravings. I started to look up different recipes online and my mom even purchased me two gluten free cook books. I allowed myself to expand my palate trying new things and continuing to expand my knowledge. Going on different journey’s to enhance your culinary skills is a rewarding endeavor that requires self-awareness and a willingness to learn. Developing my cooking abilities allowed me to uncover hidden talents and created areas for growth that will ultimately elevate my dishes to new heights. Cooking eventually consumed my time and became my favorite hobby. Cooking is a life skill I feel everybody should develop. There are hundreds of techniques that could be learned and I just want the opportunity to be able to learn. initially, my foray into gluten-free cooking was driven by a limited understanding of what ingredients I could use. However, as I looked on websites and experimented with various recipes, I found myself captivated by the possibilities that cooking presented. Each dish was not just food. It became an opportunity for exploration, learning, and self-expression. This willingness to learn not only improved my cooking but also deepened my appreciation for the culinary arts. One of the most rewarding aspects of cooking is the way it fosters self-awareness. As I tried different recipes, I discovered my strengths and weaknesses in the kitchen. Some dishes came together seamlessly, while others required multiple attempts before they met my expectations. This trial-and-error process taught me patience and resilience qualities that have spilled over into other areas of my life. When faced with a challenging recipe, I learned to embrace the process rather than focus solely on the end result. This shift in mindset has proven invaluable, reminding me that growth often comes from overcoming obstacles. With each meal I prepared, I began to understand flavor combinations, presentation, and the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients. My confidence in the kitchen blossomed as I challenged myself to replicate complex dishes or invent my own recipes. I discovered a passion for baking, which became a favorite avenue for creativity as I learned to craft gluten-free cakes and pastries that rival traditional ones. In conclusion, my culinary journey has been a fulfilling endeavor marked by self-discovery and growth. Cooking has empowered me to look beyond the surface, revealing talents and interests I didn’t know existed. As I continue to expand my knowledge and refine my skills, I remain eager for the opportunities that lie ahead.