Investing in the future: Aiden Lawrence’s culinary journey
Finding his passion
Originally from Bermuda, Aiden Lawrence moved to Canada with his mom when he was nine months old and has spent most of his life in Springhill and Amherst, N.S. This fall marked another major transition, moving to Halifax to attend NSCC’s Culinary Management program at Akerley Campus to pursue his passion.
Aiden’s interest in culinary arts began at home, baking and cooking with his grandmother. “When I was a kid, she would always let me help her whether she was making bread or cooking meat pies,” says Aiden.
Coming from a small town to a city was a big shift, but attending NSCC is a full-circle moment for Aiden. From daycare to being with his mom at work at NSCC’s Cumberland Campus, he spent a lot of time at the College from a young age, saying, “It always felt like a safe space for me.”
Learning through hands-on experience
In the Culinary Management program, Aiden enjoys the variety of hands-on learning opportunities offered to students. From preparing food in the campus cafeteria to providing dining room service that simulates a restaurant environment, gaining real-world experience throughout the program.
One of Aiden’s favourite experiences so far was catering an event with his classmates. “It was a great opportunity, and I had a blast,” he says. Faculty support has also played a key role in his success. After facing challenges in high school, Aiden credits NSCC instructors for their support, saying, “Since starting at NSCC, all the faculty that I have met so far have been very helpful, whether that is answering my many questions or giving me guidance on my work.”
Student awards that make a difference
Student awards made a meaningful difference in Aiden’s studies. He received several student awards, including the Doreen Paris Memorial Award, Robert McKelvie Memorial Award, Akerley Student Association Bursary, Archy Beals Legacy Award, Joyce Family Foundation Bursary and the Sobey Foundation Culinary Award. All made possible thanks to donor funding, the awards allowed him to focus fully on learning and growing in his program.
“These awards have supported me so much,” says Aiden. “They’ve given me the freedom to explore my career path without worrying as much about the financials.” As he looks ahead into his career, he says, “I want to be able to make food for people that they can really enjoy and put a smile on their face,” and eventually work toward his Red Seal.
To donors who make student awards possible, he shows his gratitude, saying, “It is an honour to get an award, and it's not just an award. It feels like someone is investing in my future.”
Supporting student awards at NSCC
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