Hi my name is Valeria Hernandez I'm a senior in High School, I been wanting to do this career for so long and want to accomplish this goal. Seen my mom bake and cook it motivated me to start baking and get more interest in that career. I want to have my own bakery have a lot of client that well like to book with me for event, this career is everything for me and i want to give everything that i have to career and help the community. Food has always been more than just nourishment to me it’s a language of love, culture, and connection. My interest in a culinary arts career stems from early experiences in the kitchen, watching family members cook with care and creativity. I was fascinated by how a simple dish could bring people together, evoke memories, and spark joy. Over time, I began experimenting with recipes, learning techniques, and developing my own style. Cooking became my form of expression and escape, and I realized that I didn’t just want to cook I wanted to master the craft. Pursuing a career in culinary arts is about more than becoming a chef; it's about becoming a steward of tradition and innovation. I am passionate about learning the technical skills and cultural histories behind cuisine, understanding ingredients, and exploring the endless possibilities food offers. I dream of one day opening my own restaurant where I can showcase flavors that tell a story my story and create an experience that resonates with people on a personal level. Giving back to my community is central to my vision. Food insecurity and lack of access to fresh, nutritious meals remain major issues in many areas, including my own. I plan to use my culinary skills to make a difference by supporting food education and access. One goal is to establish community programs that teach cooking basics and nutrition, especially for youth and families who may not have these resources at home. I also hope to collaborate with local farms and nonprofits to provide affordable meals or food boxes to those in need. Beyond that, I want to create a welcoming space where diversity is celebrated both in the kitchen and on the plate. I believe food is a powerful tool for cultural exchange and community building. By offering internships, workshops, and mentorship opportunities in my future restaurant, I aim to inspire and uplift aspiring chefs from underrepresented backgrounds, just as I’ve been inspired by others.

One of my biggest academic and professional goals is to become a successful pastry chef and open my own bakery. Baking has always been more than just a hobby for me it’s a passion that brings me joy and allows me to express creativity. The idea of owning a bakery where I can share that joy with others motivates me every day. I envision a warm, welcoming space where people can come together over freshly baked pastries, cakes, and desserts made with love and attention to detail. To achieve this goal, I’m committed to pursuing a formal education in pastry arts and business management. I know that success in the culinary world doesn’t come overnight. It takes discipline, hard work, and continuous learning, and I’m ready to put in the effort. From mastering techniques in pastry school to understanding how to manage finances, lead a team, and market a small business, I want to build a strong foundation that prepares me for long-term success. Giving back to my community has also played a big role in shaping who I am and what I want to do. I’ve volunteered at local food drives, helped at church bake sales, and donated baked goods for fundraisers and school events. These experiences showed me how something as simple as a homemade treat can bring comfort and happiness to people. They’ve also taught me the importance of kindness, generosity, and community support values I want to carry into my future business. One day, I hope my bakery can do more than serve delicious desserts. I want it to be a place that gives back a bakery that hosts charity bake sales, partners with local schools to mentor aspiring young chefs, and provides job opportunities to people in need. My dream isn’t just about making sweets it’s about making a positive impact on people’s lives through my work. Seeing how my small efforts have already touched others has inspired me to dream bigger. I want to build a business that reflects my values and makes a difference, one pastry at a time. This goal has been my number one and I really want achieve this goal and make my family proud and be able to help people on their events and plan with me to be their pastry chef. My passion is something lasting and full of purpose. I had this dream when I was little and seen my mom bake and cook motivate my dream.