Lynlee Stout
2nd-year student, Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts with a minor in Restaurant Management
She chose to study culinary arts because food is her life, says Lynlee Stout who is currently completing a Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts with a minor in Restaurant Management.
“I’ve always been incredibly passionate about food and all things culinary. My speciality is pastry but I’m passionate about all areas of culinary arts. I decided that I really wanted to take the next step in securing my career and get qualified in the area I’m most passionate about.”
But as much as she loves food, Lynlee can’t actually eat the delicious food she is creating; a chronic condition means that she can’t keep down food or water. However, that certainly hasn’t stopped her from pursuing her goal.
“Trying to adjust to university study with a chronic illness was a bit of a challenge, but all the lecturers who know about my condition have been really supportive and understanding about my situation. I’ve ended up doing really well in my classes, which I’m very proud of. The knowledge I’ve gained has been so valuable, and I’ve formed strong bonds with other students as well as the chefs who are incredibly passionate about what they teach.”
Fuelling her passion for food
Lynlee says she has enjoyed all aspects of her studies so far.
“AUT has a reputation for offering the best culinary programme in the country, and I really loved what the Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts includes a bit of everything. I’ve enjoyed the challenges within the lessons, especially the course Anatomy of a Dish, which has been my favourite so far. I’ve loved all the different culinary skills and techniques we’ve learnt, including getting to do gastronomy, butchering and learning about different cuisines. We’re also encouraged to get creative with the plating and add our own artistic flair to the presentation of our dishes.”
Her degree has helped to further fuel her burning passion for food and cooking, she says.
“When I graduate, I’d love to be a combination of a ‘culinary influencer’, ‘recipe developer’ and ‘entrepreneur’. Due to my situation, I’d love to do a job where I can work from anywhere and that is family friendly. The goal is to use social media to secure brand sponsorships and then develop recipes featuring the sponsored products. I’d love to add a self-sufficiency element to my content, as well as a touch of horticulture. I really love what Chelsea Winter does, which has been where I’ve drawn inspiration from. Further down the road, my ultimate aspiration is to establish my own café.”
Advice for other students
With only one more year of her studies to go, Lynlee has some great advice for other students.
“My advice is to embrace the challenges, stay curious, experiment fearlessly and don't be afraid to mix tradition with innovation. It’s ok to step out of your comfort zone.
“Savor every moment, as the incredible knowledge you’ll gain through your time at AUT is so valuable, and remember that your dedication and perseverance today will lay the foundation for a future filled with success. As Walt Disney said, ‘All our dreams can come true if we can have the courage to pursue them.’”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the programme to other students.
“This programme isn’t just a Bachelor of Culinary Arts; it goes far beyond that. The opportunities this degree brings include working alongside and learning from AUT’s lecturers and lecturing chefs. They all teach you so much valuable information, skills and techniques that aren’t just on a lesson plan but cover knowledge from years of their own experiences from their time in the industry, past and present.”
