Baking and Pastry Culinary School: Louisiana Culinary Institute Student Spotlight
Sometimes the right career path isn't clear early in life. For Emily Debarbieris, her journey from a psychology degree to baking, shows how paying attention to what truly makes her happy can lead to unexpected success.
What Was Emily's Inspiration for a Career in Baking and Pastry?
Before culinary school, Emily earned a degree in Psychology from UL Lafayette. After graduating, she moved to Baton Rouge for a gap year and began working in the medical field. While the work was stable, she quickly realized it was not fulfilling. Baking started as a way to relieve stress, but it soon became something more.
"I wasn't happy in my job, but baking became a stress reliever," Emily shared. "I realized it was something I genuinely loved."
Why Pursue a Career in Baking and Pastry?
Emily did not grow up planning to attend culinary school. The idea came unexpectedly while she was working outside the food industry. Baking gave her a creative outlet and a sense of purpose that she had not found in her previous career.
That realization pushed Emily to consider a professional future in the culinary arts and take a leap of faith into something new, demonstrating how listening to her passions can open new doors.
Why Choose the Louisiana Culinary Institute?
Initially, Emily didn't know about the Louisiana Culinary Institute. After learning about the school, she scheduled a tour and quickly felt at home.
She also considered an online culinary program, but knew she wanted hands-on experience.
"After touring LCI and meeting the instructors, I felt strongly that this was the best fit for me." Meeting the chefs, seeing the kitchens, and learning about the program's structure helped her feel confident in her decision to apply.
What Has Emily's Experience at LCI Been Like?
Emily entered the program with little technical knowledge and credits the approachable, supportive chef instructors for investing extra time in students, highlighting the program's mentorship.
"They have stayed after class to help me one-on-one," Emily shared. "You can't get that kind of support in an online program."
Chef Colt and Chef Ned have played a major role in building her confidence and helping her grow both professionally and personally.
Emily is also currently working at Bacon & Fig, gaining real-world experience alongside her coursework.
What Is Emily's Favorite Class at LCI?
Emily's favorite class so far has been Bread Basics with Chef Chris, a course many students point to as a highlight of the program. "Chef Chris is just amazing," she said. "Learning about bread is wild. You make French bread, rolls, and focaccia. It really opens your eyes." The class helped her understand both the science and technique behind baking and reinforced her love for the craft.
What Is Student Life Like at Louisiana Culinary Institute?
Emily describes LCI as a welcoming, community-driven space where students feel supported, helping parents and students feel confident in joining this environment.
One of her favorite traditions is Friday morning biscuit-making with Chef Mike. He invites students to come in early, help, and learn together.
"Everyone is welcome," she said. "It's a great way to get involved."
Emily also encourages students to participate in events, build relationships with chefs, and volunteer whenever possible.
How Do Students Collaborate in the Kitchen at LCI?
Teamwork is a major part of the LCI experience. Emily says students constantly learn how to communicate, step in when someone needs help, and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
"This really prepares you for working in a real kitchen," she explained. "There are so many moving parts."
Emily has also worked at Court to Table, where the head chef, Carlos Foret, is an LCI alumnus. "So many alumni are working in the industry and hiring from LCI," she said. "They had such a great experience themselves."
How Has LCI Prepared Emily for a Culinary Career So Far?
Although she is still early in the program, Emily already feels confident in her skills. "I still have a lot to learn, but I feel prepared," she said. "Time management, understanding kitchen equipment, and knowing how a kitchen operates all come quickly." She believes the program has given her a strong foundation and the confidence to continue growing in the industry.
What Are Emily's Career Goals After Graduation?
Emily is still exploring her long-term goals, but she knows she would like to apply for the Disney Culinary Program after graduating. The program requires completion of a culinary degree, making LCI an important step toward that opportunity.
What Advice Does Emily Have for Prospective LCI Students?
Emily encourages prospective students to take the leap, even without prior experience, fostering feelings of empowerment and possibility for those considering LCI.
"Go for it," she said. "It's easily the best decision I've ever made." She strongly recommends touring the school before deciding. "Even if you're unsure, take the tour. It could change your life."
Emily also emphasizes that culinary school is a commitment. "It's hands-on and requires effort outside of class," she said. "You have to be willing to learn and grow."
How Has Culinary School Changed Emily's Perspective on Food?
Through her coursework, Emily has discovered techniques and foods she never knew existed. "There are so many steps from the kitchen to the plate," she explained. "Everything has to go right." She especially enjoys how detailed and precise baking is, which continues to fuel her passion for the craft.
If you are ready to learn in an environment where people invest in your growth as much as your skills, Louisiana Culinary Institute is where that journey begins.
Schedule a campus tour or apply today to see how mentorship and hands-on learning can shape your future in the culinary world.
