Rashad Barrow is a proud graduate of Uncommon Leadership Charter High School, class of 2024, and a first-year student in the Culinary Arts program at Kingsborough Community College.
As a freshman, Rashad is learning that teamwork, time management, and kitchen safety are key to success. Most of the learning is hands-on, but he says it’s still important to stay on top of reading assignments and culinary terminology—they tend to pop up in quizzes and class conversations. Though Rashad is just getting started, he is already diving into the work with confidence and curiosity.
What is one lesson you have learned?
“Don’t wing it unless your chef-instructor says you can. Recipes exist for a reason, and following instructions closely helps you build strong habits and avoid wasting ingredients.”
Despite the fast pace, Rashad finds the work rewarding. On most days, he doesn’t even need to bring lunch—he and his classmates often enjoy a “family meal” or get to eat what they’ve prepared in class. He’s also working to build strong relationships with his instructors, knowing they can open doors to future opportunities in the industry.
What advice do you have for incoming freshman?
“Take your syllabus seriously. From required uniforms to recipe cards, knowing what’s expected ahead of time can save you time and money. Also, I encourage new students to explore cost-effective ways to get supplies instead of buying everything online. Oh, and bring a Tupperware. You’ll want to take some of your creations home.”
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