School is back in session which means our ProStart students are back in the classroom learning the skills they need to flourish in the hospitality industry. We have some exciting challenges lined up with the schools this year, to keep students on their toes and engaged in a little friendly competition.
Students will put their creativity to the test in our annual pumpkin carving contest this October. Follow PA ProStart on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for a chance to vote on your favorite design.
Gordon Food Service and EFD Associates have partnered once again with PA ProStart for the Mystery Box Challenge this November. Each participating school will receive a box filled with mystery ingredients that they have to use to create a unique, three-course meal. Bragging rights and a $500 prize are on the line.
This winter, students will showcase their skills, knowledge, and creativity in the second annual Cake Decorating Contest. Stay tuned to our social accounts for your chance to cast your vote!
In April, we bring back the Fooled You challenge, where students make something out of completely different materials. Think Netflix’s “Is it Cake?” but with any type of food! Again, follow PA ProStart on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for your chance to vote on the entries.
The PA ProStart Student Invitational will be March 1 at the Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel in State College. Teams of students compete in either the management or culinary arts categories where the first-place winners will go on to represent Pennsylvania at the National ProStart Student Invitation in May. This year, we’re expanding our format to include a baking competition—stay tuned to the Daily Update for more details.
Scholarship Program Opens October 1
Since 2006, the PRLA Educational Foundation has awarded nearly $375,000 in scholarship money to students pursuing culinary arts and hospitality management at the post-secondary level. Applications for the 2022/23 program will be accepted from October 1, 2022, to April 1, 2023.
HARP Event with Four Walls Whiskey/Always Sunny Podcast
Earlier this year, the guys behind It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia launched a whiskey brand that pays tribute to the four walls the gang calls home. They released two Irish Whiskey products with proceeds from sales of both items benefiting the PRLAEF’s Hospitality Assistance Response of PA (HARP) fund.
Hospitality Career Boot Camp this November
The PRLAEF is piloting a new event this fall to introduce students to the opportunities and career pathways found in the hospitality industry. The event is open to central Pennsylvania students in grades 7 through 12 who are interested in learning more about hospitality and are not currently enrolled in a culinary arts or hospitality management program at their schools.
Students will get an introduction to the industry with a day full of fun and learning about potential career opportunities. On the menu includes cooking and baking demonstrations, a dining etiquette class, and a tour of hotel operations.
