Ask Celeste

Dear Celeste,

I finished high school many years ago and went straight into the work force. I’m considering a career in baking. What should I do to begin this journey?

Signed, Allison S.

Dear Allison,

No matter when you finished high school, it’s never too late to pursue a passion. There are many avenues you can take to begin a career in culinary arts or baking.

There are no education requirements to work as a baker, most establishments do prefer that applicants have at least a high school diploma.

There are over 200 accredited training and apprenticeship programs in the U.S. that will combine academic coursework and on-the-job training. These programs typically last from 1 – 2 years and they will give you an education in nutrition, health, and mathematics, which is helpful in measurements and portions.  You can also enroll in a training program at a local supermarket, or apprenticeship at a bakery to gain experience and training. Don’t forget to practice in your own kitchen in the interim, everyone appreciates goodies for the holidays and won’t mind being your guinea pig.

Dear Celeste,

I’m leaving for school and my boyfriend wants to come with me even though he won’t be attending school, should I break up?

Signed, Harriet S.

Dear Harriet,

Graduating and going to college is a tremendous right of passage. You are leaving the life you’ve always known and your childhood to venture out on your own.

You will meet new people and make alot of new friends. Taking along the boyfriend who won’t be attending school can change a few things; either he will be instrumental in helping with the household chores and finances, if he has a job that is, or he will be the ball and chain back at the apartment, or he will be the life of the party because he doesn’t have finals the next day.

You really should ask yourself if you see a future with or without him, and are you staying together out of comfort, true love or convenience? It’s always nice to have someone you care about close as you move into the next chapter of your life, but it should be carefully thought out before the move is made. Maybe suggest he enrolls with you or finds a job prior to the move.

Nothing grows resentment like not having a participating and contributing partner, so do alot of soul searching before you make your final decision and weigh the pros and cons.

Celeste is a homegrown wise soul from right here on the West Plains. To ask her a question on any subject, within reason and proper decorum, send her an email at askceleste@cheneyfreepress.com.