On Wednesday, Sept. 30, students at Bethlehem Central High School explored culinary education and the science of taste during a visit from BC alumnus Emily Crandall.

Crandall, a 2017 BCHS graduate, works as an admissions counselor at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, New York. Her classroom visit was arranged by Family and Consumer Science teacher Lindsey Bradt for students taking Culinary Arts. It was the first of two stops at the high school for Crandall. She also represented CIA at Wednesday’s College Fair.

The Culinary Arts students were treated to an in-depth look at the CIA’s college degree programs, student life and campus locations, hands-on learning opportunities, internships and career pathways in the culinary and hospitality industries.

Students learned how the five basic tastes (sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami) contribute to flavor, along with the roles of aroma and texture. 

“Taste is really limited, but flavor is nearly infinite,” Crandall explained, before leading students through an interactive chocolate tasting, comparing white, milk and dark chocolate and discussing differences in sweetness, texture and flavor. 

Crandall’s visit offered students an opportunity to explore careers in the culinary arts while connecting classroom learning to the science and creativity behind food.

Thank you to Emily Crandall and Ms. Bradt for a memorable lesson!