What is The Project?
It's pretty simple. I plan to create a pastry curriculum for myself so that I can improve my pastry skills. I'm the teacher and the student. I want to make it as structured as possible because this is really about my professional development. Once a week I will be in the kitchen focusing on a specific technique. Throughout the week I will be researching the science and theory behind the topic i'm focusing on as well as reflecting on how I executed the technique. Even though this does not substitute for a formal pastry education, this will help prepare me for anything that may come my way when I'm looking for jobs. I have been baking for just under four years at this point, and in that time I have become familiar and comfortable with the pace and demands of a professional kitchen. Now I just need to expand my knowledge of pastry techniques: insert The Project!
Why the Blog?
Blogging my experience will keep me focused and make me accountable for my actions. Also, while I'm improving my pastry skills, I can strengthen my writing abilities. Maybe this will be the start of my food writing career....maybe not. But who wouldn't want to make a living writing about sugar, butter, flour, and chocolate?! Can't hate me for trying. This is also the best way for me to share my journey with others. Maybe it'll even inspire other novice bakers. Finally, when I'm finished I will have an in-depth record of my efforts.
Timeline
I'm not sure how long this project will take me. I'm expecting it to be about a year, but this isn't really about the end point; it's about the journey (oh man, that's cheesy; insert picture of calm waters or eagle flying here). In fact, I hope I never get to the end of my culinary travels, sigh.
But, like i said, I'm plan to wrap this up in about a year.
When It's Over
I would like to enroll in a formal pastry program here in America or in France (!!!). If that doesn't happen, I will continue to challenge myself professionally and go after jobs where I will have more responsibility and (eventually) make more money.
Class starts June 23, 2010!
