Two years into a biology degree (secondary education option) at Ball State University, in Indiana, I had a change of heart. I was panicked, as most adolescents are when they are made to decide what to do with their lives. I wasn’t sure I wanted to be a teacher. I was sure however that teaching would allow me the time to do the things I love; grocery shopping, going to farmer's markets, cooking and entertaining for my friends and family, and eating out at restaurants. Was I in it only for the summers off? One day while sitting in the front row of organic chemistry, I started brainstorming creative ways to stuff crepes. My notes that day were as much about alkane nomenclature as they were recipe ideas. A quarter-life crisis ensued. I had to do something!
I went through every single class description on the university website with a fine tooth comb. Finally, I decided to meet with a counsellor in the Family and Consumer Sciences department. I made the switch to Hospitality and Food Management later that week. (Thank you Ms. Foster and Chef Altman)
Since graduation I’ve had several
internships and jobs. I am now a manager in the food and beverage department of
a
I have an interesting dilemma though;
food is the love of my life and conversely, my most dangerous enemy. I have
anaphylaxis and am allergic to nuts, peanuts, seafood and fish. I want to share
my food adventures with the world, slash those who stumble upon my blog,
because I think my dilemma has possibly become the dilemma of many, whether it
is you yourself, a friend, co-worker, or your child that has allergies. I went
to university in the States to be a hurdler on Ball U’s track team….insert
witty metaphors for life here __________! But really, the constant challenge of
eating and working with food safely, makes it all the more interesting and
enjoyable.
Please stay tuned!
Amanda
