Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1515764
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 | maconmagazine.com 107 What classroom experiences sparked your passion for teaching? As a teaching assistant, I learned that getting to work hands-on with the students is so fulfilling. Learning what motivates them individually, learning their strengths and weaknesses, and working with them one-on-one to bring out their highest potential is one of my favorite parts of my job, and it makes me a more effective instructor. We have fun in my classes. We sing, we dance, we laugh and joke around, but at the end of the day, they know that Chef Radke means business, and I have high expectations from each of them. What's your favorite place to eat in Macon? Where do I even start? I can't just choose one! Dovetail for fine dining, Miramar for date night, FOJ for healthier and delicious food, La Bella Morelia when I need tacos (the birria is amazing), Sumo when sushi calls, J&F Caribbean when I need some comfort food, Piedmont Brewery and Kitchen, Oliver's Corner Bistro… the list goes on. We have some great choices here in Macon. To learn more about Helms College and its programs, visit online at helms.edu, or taste the results in person at Edgar's Bistro, open during the academic year Wednesday- Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. What's one cooking tip you learned at Helms that readers would find helpful? Honing your knife! The most important tool in any kitchen is a sharp knife. Honing will keep it sharper longer. Could you share a powerful story from a student whose life was changed by Helms College? I don't know any story better than I know my own. I went from being a single mom who had never worked in a kitchen to an executive chef turned chef instructor in less than seven years. Helms College, mixed with hard work, passion, and determination gave me a life I never would have thought possible. Who's a good Helms College candidate? Anyone who has a passion for cooking. You can come here just to boost your cooking skills or come to start your career. Passion is the most important thing you need when you walk in the door. We can teach you the rest. How does Helms connect students to career opportunities beyond the classroom? Career Services does a wonderful job of connecting students with potential employers in our community. Our instructors also have a lot of personal connections that students can utilize. This industry is a lot about who you know. Having instructors who saw my potential and introduced me to the right people was paramount to my success. Anything else you'd like to share? I hope that anyone reading this who has a passion for cooking will come see what we're all about. Come take a tour or come eat at Edgar's Bistro and see what our students can do!