Seventh-graders in Susan Horowitz’s home and careers class at Deer Park’s Robert Frost Middle School recently enjoyed a unique live demonstration from chef Sara Samuels, a representative of Johnson & Wales University.

Samuels prepared a Vietnamese dish called nime chow – a raw vegetable spring roll – for the students, and discussed the importance of fresh ingredients, knife skills and plate presentation. After sampling the spring rolls, students had the opportunity to ask questions about Johnson & Wales and the culinary field. Samuels explained how the multimillion-dollar culinary industry is expanding to include business, marketing and many other opportunities outside of food preparation, and encouraged the seventh-graders to remain open to new pathways to success.

“The visit was a huge success,” said Horowitz. “My students enjoyed a healthy treat and were exposed to different career opportunities.”