Best Teen Chef 2008 Local Finalists - Los Angeles
Jose Gonzalez
SYLMAR HIGH SCHOOL
The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California – Los Angeles’s Best Teen Chef 2008
Jose Gonzalez was born in Mission Hills, California and is the youngest of three boys born to his parents, both immigrants from Guadalajara, Mexico. His mother introduced him to the art of baking and pastry through her small catering business, therefore exposing Jose to the kitchen at an early age. In the 8th grade, Jose decided to experiment with cooking and liked the challenge of improving the taste of food. The turning point in his life came a year later, when his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was at this time, Jose realized that he wouldn’t always have someone cooking for him, and as a 9th grader in high school, Jose enrolled in culinary arts courses at Sylmar High School and his passion for cooking increased with each course. During the time his mother was battling breast cancer, Jose volunteered and helped run his mother’s business. He took orders, baked and helped make sure she had a business to return to after her recovery. Jose set a goal for himself – he decided he would go to college for culinary arts so that he could eventually open his own restaurant.
Since he set this goal, Jose has also entered the CCAP (Careers Through Culinary Arts Program) program at his high school to help him achieve his goals. To help support his family, Jose works after school as a line cook at Mission Hills College. In his spare time, he also is working on developing a line of t-shirts and chef coats for culinary students and chefs.
After graduating from Sylmar High School, Jose plans to enroll in the Culinary Arts Program at The Art Institute of California – Los Angeles.