Career Program: Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Production
Current Residence: Neenah
Age: 48
Attended FVTC: Fall 2019 EMT / Summer 2021 Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Production

Why did you choose Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Production career programs?

I have always had a passion for food. However, my life took a different turn and a medical career was more important at the time to help my family, friends and relatives in a country that has experienced war for a very long time. I was not happy in that career field, and have always regretted that I did not get to have a career in what I love—food. I've since had an exciting change of events that has allowed me to pursue my dream of becoming a chef. Fox Valley Technical College made it so easy for me to realize my dreams can be made into reality.

What are you learning about your career field that you find interesting or rewarding?

It's a field that needs strong, dedicated, business-savvy women, which makes me excited to be a leader. Fox Valley Technical College provides the tools to help form your leadership confidence. I aspire to be a role model for all women, to support each other in this industry as sisters, and I want to show Muslim women that we can achieve life-changing careers in what we LOVE to do. Sharing our cultures and differences is exactly what food is all about... tasting everything that the world has to offer from one country to another. It makes me downright jubilant to know I can share my passion for food and friendship, and make others excited about it too.

Why did you choose Fox Valley Technical College?

Because it is the best college in the Midwest.

How has Fox Valley Technical College helped you change your life?

FVTC has opened opportunities to pursue a new career that I thought might be unattainable. The amount of support given in making a transition from a medical background into a culinary career has been amazing! Whether it's course explanation, expectations in industry outcomes, financial assistance, etc. FVTC has allowed me to feel confident that they are here to make sure I succeed in a program and career I am passionate about and have supported me every step of the way.

What type of job do you expect to find after graduation? 

Executive Chef - Internationally.

In one sentence, what's your best advice for someone who's not sure they're ready for college?

College is not easy work, you have to put in the effort, but the people that you are surrounded by at Fox Valley Technical College want you to succeed, and that is the difference FVTC makes over all other colleges.

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Pro Tips

Best on-campus place to study: Front lobby of the main campus there is a nook by the culinary theatre (E108) that is quiet with a great view.

One class you surprisingly enjoyed: Meat ID

One class that challenged you: Nutrition

One thing every FVTC student must experience on campus before graduating: Student Life and HUGE Uno cards

Pro-tip for newcomers trying to find their way around campus: There are color printed maps on the desks of most administration offices that you can take, these are VERY useful.