Student Spotlight: Ashley Collins Blends Art and Flavor at Louisiana Culinary Institute
With a grandmother who specialized in Italian cuisine, an uncle who worked as a chef, and a father known for his BBQ skills, Ashley's passion for cooking was sparked early. But after college, the Gardner, KS native took a different route, working as a teacher and running a childcare center in Louisiana.
When the pandemic hit in 2020, Ashley picked up a job at Starbucks to supplement her income. There, a conversation with a coworker who had attended Louisiana Culinary Institute reignited her culinary dreams. For four years, she considered enrolling. In 2024, with the support of financial aid, she finally made the leap.
"I always loved cooking," she says. "LCI is giving me the chance to turn that love into something real."
Now in her third semester at LCI, Ashley is pursuing dual degrees in Baking and Pastry and the Savory Culinary programs, and her journey has already taken her far.
Ashley recently returned from the Cannes Film Festival in France, where she had the rare opportunity to showcase her talents on an international stage, preparing both savory dishes and elegant desserts for festival guests. Just weeks earlier, she was part of the food prep team at the prestigious Masters Tournament, where the high-pressure environment tested her focus and efficiency.
"It feels like a dream," she says. "I never imagined having two once-in-a-lifetime opportunities back-to-back in my first year."
A standout project from her time at LCI? A Swiss roll cake inspired by Van Gogh's Starry Night, designed with batter art. "Chef Ned encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone," Ashley recalls. The project blended her love for art with culinary technique—a combination that defines much of her approach.
LCI's instructors have been instrumental in her growth. Chef Colt helped her connect with a local catering company and encouraged her to train as an event coordinator—a role she hopes to specialize in one day. Chef Mike provided a reference that helped her land the opportunity in France. "There's so much mentorship here. The chefs really care. They want to see us succeed."
Student life at LCI is equally enriching. Ashley describes the atmosphere as full of purpose: "Everyone is here to succeed. We build each other up. It's about producing the best." Students support one another, share knowledge, and collaborate toward excellence.
Since her first semester, Ashley has been catering for families, now up to five and counting. She dreams of owning a food truck and offering fine dining experiences in people's homes. With LCI's support, she feels ready: "There's a class just for building your portfolio and resume. I also got to do a private dinner, which let me showcase my skills."
Her advice to prospective students? "Just do it. The financial aspect can be intimidating, but there are options like financial aid and scholarships. And don't turn down opportunities. This industry is all about word of mouth."
She also shares a dose of reality: "You won't be cooking right away. The first semester is tough, but it teaches you the basics you need."
Cooking has now become Ashley's singular passion. "That's all I want to do. This experience made me focus completely on food."
Ashley credits her success to her tight-knit circle at LCI, giving shoutouts to friends Elena, Gabby, and MJ. "Stick close to your people. It makes all the difference."
With her artistic flair, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering drive, Ashley Collins is crafting a flavorful future, one dish at a time.
