The Culinary Arts Institute of Montgomery County Community College held a preview event on Jan. 14 for its proposed International Study Program. To help preview the program and inspire students, guest speaker Jack Maxwell, the host of Travel Channel’s “Booze Traveler,” spoke about learning through travel, culture, food and drink.

The International Study Program in Italy through the Marco Polo Institute will provide CAI students with the opportunity to be fully immersed in the culture. They will see firsthand the production, preparation and presentation of food from “farm to table.” This unique experience will enhance their skills and benefit their culinary careers.

 

Maxwell, a native of south Boston, Massachusetts, has visited various places around the globe to explore cultures, beverages and cuisine. At each site, he has met new people and become involved in local activities to learn about the country’s unique relationship with beverages and food. He encourages students to study abroad, learn about food and cultures, and most importantly, connect with people. 

“We want to do things that are giving the students a little bit more than just learning in the classroom or even learning in the kitchens and the labs at the Culinary Arts Institute. We want to give them real life experience.” Gaetan Giannini, Dean of Business and Entrepreneurial Initiatives at MCCC.

CAI is currently exploring funding options to help students with the costs of travel and the program, which is an optional experience. The incoming class of 2019 will be able to study abroad in the summer of 2020.