Seven Ivy Tech Community College Fort Wayne culinary arts and baking and pastry students recently showed off their skills in the annual European Competition. The top six finalists received scholarships that would fund a trip to study culinary arts in Italy this spring.

The following students won the opportunity to travel to Italy:

• Jayzon Jordan (Culinary Arts)
• Emanuel Alvarado (Culinary Arts)
• Rhea Vishal Patel (Baking and Pastry)
• Billie Renn (Culinary Arts)
• Cherrelle Smith (Culinary Arts)
• Mia Tell (Baking and Pastry)

“Ivy Tech Fort Wayne Hospitality is very to be able to send six European Competition winners to Italy again this year,” says Aaron Parkinson, Program Chair of Hospitality Administration. “All of the competitors received a Bronze or above, which also counts for their exit exam. Congratulations to all those that participated!”

Culinary students prepared a meal with, a salad, an appetizer, and an entrée with a protein, vegetable, and starch. Students had to prepare both chicken and Dover sole. Baking students prepared items including plated chocolate and fruit desserts, yeast bread and rolls, and a decorated cake.

Kitchen judges watched and rated students as they worked, paying attention to technique and ability. Floor judges blind tasted the completed meals. Judges based their scores on American Culinary Federation (ACF) criteria, and to be considered for the European trip, students must place at bronze standard or higher.

 “As an international student, I’m so thankful for this opportunity this program has given me,” says Rhea Vishal Patel, European competition winner. “I’m super excited to go to Italy and learn more about the food!”