Kendall’s favorite quote, “iron sharpens iron,” is a powerful reminder of the value of mutual growth and strength that comes from collaboration and challenge. In my perspective, this quote resonates deeply with both my journey in the culinary industry and my aspirations within it. The culinary world, like any other profession, is ever-evolving and requires continuous improvement, learning, and the pursuit of excellence. Iron sharpens iron implies that through working with others—whether they are mentors, peers, or competitors—one's skills and capabilities are honed to perfection. This principle is key to my career aspirations. When I first ventured into baking, I was driven by the simple joy of creating with my hands. Over time, however, I realized that mastery in this field required not just technical skills but also a strong community of like-minded individuals who share knowledge and push each other to be better. In the culinary industry, particularly in the realm of pastry arts, every baker or pastry chef has a unique approach, but it’s through collaboration, feedback, and mentorship that one’s craft can truly evolve. By seeking advice from experienced chefs and working alongside passionate peers, I can sharpen my skills and refine my techniques. As I continue my journey at Johnson & Wales University, I aim to expand my knowledge and network within the culinary community. I understand that in a field like baking and pastry arts, much of the learning happens through hands-on experience and learning from others who bring different perspectives. For me, working with others—whether it’s in a professional kitchen or through collaborative events—is essential for growth. “Iron sharpens iron” reminds me that challenges are part of this process. When working with people who challenge my way of thinking or doing, I am pushed to stretch my abilities, learn new techniques, and push beyond my comfort zone. This is what will ultimately help me become a better chef and an even better business owner as I strive to build Kay'z Treatz LLC into a high-end catering company. The future of the culinary industry, particularly the pastry arts, is driven by constant innovation. Chefs must stay current with trends, adapt to changing customer preferences, and innovate with new techniques and flavors. As I seek to become a Certified Master Pastry Chef, I know that I cannot do this in isolation. I need a community of talented individuals—those who challenge me, support me, and hold me accountable—to help me refine my abilities. The “iron sharpens iron” philosophy applies not just to personal growth but also to the cultivation of an environment where creativity and excellence flourish. Ultimately, I see my future in the culinary industry not just as an opportunity to perfect my craft, but also as a chance to contribute to the broader community. I want to share my knowledge with up-and-coming pastry chefs, encourage them to embrace challenges, and support them as they grow. In this way, I will continue the cycle of sharpening and refining that keeps the culinary world moving forward. In conclusion, the idea of “iron sharpening iron” is central to how I approach both my personal and professional growth in the culinary industry. It’s through collaboration, constructive feedback, and a continuous exchange of ideas that I can sharpen my skills and stay innovative in an ever-changing field. As I continue my journey, I know that embracing challenges and working with others will help me achieve my aspirations and make a meaningful impact on the world of pastry arts.