My fellow students across the world can agree that this is a particularly challenging time for our academic goals. Colleges have closed and switched to an online format, causing stress and anxiety for many students who are not accustomed. While these classes are quite helpful, many of us are still left waiting. Lab and in-person classes required for many degree programs are not being offered. Culinary classes are canceled at my campus indefinitely.

This is the sad reality of education during a pandemic. We are not only living with fear of becoming infected by a devastating virus, but now we cannot focus on advancing our own careers. It is living frozen in a moment while time passes. No more class sessions or visiting friends and faculty on campus. No more learning new cooking techniques or making hilarious mistakes in the kitchen. Now, we are just left wondering what to do from this point.

Many of us have dropped out or taken a break, finding work where we can during this time. Others have switched majors to something they may have otherwise not pursued simply to make progress. And others, such as myself, have taken this time to evaluate which direction I wish to take. I am staying within the culinary realm, but due to not being able to take courses, I am focusing on my primary love of writing. Food writing and recipe development spark a fire within me I cannot say I’ve ever felt. Even if I am restricted from academic education, it doesn’t mean my skill development and learning must stop.

Expect to hear more from me in the coming weeks. No journey was ever worth it unless it involved overcoming obstacles. I will do more of what I love, knowing that academia is only one part of life’s experiences. Many amazing chefs do not have formal training, relying on good old fashioned gumption. And now that I’ve displayed I’m just a crotchety old coot deep down inside, it’s time to get some writing done.