Teaching & Learning
Since the beginning of my study in the Culinary Skills Chef Training program at Niagara College as well as teachers college at Queens University, I have become passionate about working with others; especially those that I can teach and who can teach me. I believe that a combination of my education at Niagara College and Queens University as well as my workplace and volunteer experience has readily prepared for my future as an educator. Through my diverse volunteer experiences, I have attained superior communication, organization and preparation skills, allowing me to work optimally with others, as well as complete tasks effectively and quickly. Moreover, my education within the culinary program requires a great attention to detail, as well as advanced planning and time management skills; which I firmly believe I possess.
In 2009, I had my first teaching experience. It was a very positive and rewarding experience and reaffirmed my resolve to provide effective learning opportunities for students. Since then, I have held various teaching positions, and have taught both children and adults. From my first experience to the present, I find the interaction with students and the ability to contribute to their knowledge and skill set to be rewarding and very gratifying. Although I have pursued a career as a Culinary Artist, I have gravitated towards a passion for teaching, hence my many experiences as a teacher/instructor. During my teaching placements, I was lucky enough to have had the opportunity to work at a specialized school for students who are deaf. Some of the students in my classes required more scaffolding before they could accomplish tasks independently. I have been able to provide on both an individual and small group bases the necessary tools and strategies that they needed in order to reach a fully comprehensive state. Working with those students who have some learning difficulties has deepened my desire to be the best teacher I can be, as I see that those students have great insights and much to contribute to the classroom when the teacher supports their needs.
I feel very strongly that every person, especially children deserve an education and the opportunity to explore a wide range of career options. As such, I wholeheartedly support the Hospitality course offered within secondary schools, and I believe that these types of programs will continue to prevent students from not completing their high school graduate expectations. I also believe that students react and respond positively to teachers who can teach in a way that values the student and the subject being taught. It is with honour that I pride myself with the ability to communicate and interact with students (children, adolescents and adults) in a positive and effective manner. Encouraging children to always do their best as well as teamwork skills are important both on the field and in the classroom.
I believe that my vast knowledge in the field of Culinary Arts combined with my experience teaching various age groups in a variety of settings, including one-on-one, classroom groups and in schools, has offered me a great appreciation of the makings of a successful teacher.