From Cosmetologist to Chef: Changing Careers with a Culinary Degree

Louisiana Culinary Institute’s LaJohnda Offord has always had a passion for creating. After spending 15 years as a cosmetologist, she decided to pursue her true calling in the culinary arts. LaJohnda enrolled at LCI in May of 2020. True to her dedication she opted for a double major in advanced culinary arts and advanced baking and pastry. 

Since the age of eight Offord had an interest, skill, and talent when it came to being in the kitchen. “Sometimes we focus on things that our mothers and grandmothers did in the kitchen. It was the way that they learned, but learning the reason why things are done within is a recipe has been a huge benefit of culinary school,” says LaJohnda.  Louisiana Culinary Institute was her first choice, and the lessons and skills being taught have not disappointed.

Understanding how the front and back of the house work together has been a huge benefit. “I’m not used to working with every part of the restaurant, so I’ve learned a lot about what each side needs.”

LaJohnda owns Chef Offord & Co., which is a private catering food truck. Her food truck brings high-end Cajun and Creole food to an entirely new level. Ultimately her goal is to earn the five-star rating that LCI exemplifies and promotes for their students. “My goal is to have the first 5-star food truck.” LaJohnda would also like to pursue her dream of being a celebrity private chef.