Emy Rodriguez

Emy Rodriguez, Cicero, Illinois, is thrilled to be pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a pastry chef thanks to Triton College’s Hospitality Industry Administration (HIA) Program.

“Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to be a baker,” said Rodriguez. In learning about the HIA Program, Rodriguez contacted Department Chair Chef Denise Smith-Gaborit, who offered to give Rodriguez a campus tour that included visiting Triton’s state-of-the-art kitchens, bakeries and classroom facilities.

Following the tour, Rodriguez knew that Triton’s program was the right fit. “The first class I took at Triton was a knife skills class,” said Rodriguez. “I enjoyed this class because I learned so many exciting skills,” she said, adding that she also appreciates how “cooking and baking comes together” and the interesting comments and perspective HIA instructors offer during her classes.

“Triton welcomes students who are new to the industry, as well as students who are looking to maximize their work portfolios and/or advance in their careers,” said Chef Smith-Gaborit. Triton is committed to preparing students for meeting the growing requirements of the industry, she said, along with fostering student connections with some of Chicago’s premier hoteliers and restaurateurs.

“All of my instructors pushed me to the best of my abilities,” said Rodriguez “They’re very eager for me to succeed. Triton’s Culinary Program has opened so many doors for me,” she said. “I’m so excited to graduate and start my career as a chef.”

Through its HIA pathway, Triton College provides four Associate in Applied Science degrees in the areas of baking and pastry, culinary arts, hotel/motel management and restaurant management, and five certificate programs. Learn more here.