Student Spotlight - Culinary Student Juggles Busy Family Life & School Schedule to Succeed!

Mark Stokes graduated in September 2011 from the Dorsey Schools Culinary Academy.  This busy single father of two young boys had the challenge of juggling family responsibilities, initially trying to find a job and then working, in addition to attending school. 

While a student, Mark worked hard to obtain employment at a restaurant within the culinary field to gain experience and was able to secure employment at Applebee's.  This hands-on cooking experience provided financial stability and also fulfilled his Dorsey Culinary Academy externship requirement. 

Mark admits that he struggled when he started at Dorsey in the beginning. After making some adjustments, he brought his grades up to A's as he continued the program.  He attributes his success to working hard at juggling the life of being a single parent and student.  His instructors think it was also his positive attitude and determination to succeed. 

Mark's externship supervisor at Applebee's said, "He is good at executing the food to standards.  Mark is a good employee and in our recent inspection by our Area Director, he received a lot of compliments on his execution."

Having graduated and achieving experience in his craft, Mark has already been promoted.

Mark is one of Dorsey's successful graduates, who is a great example of someone that didn't let obstacles stop him from completing and succeeding in his program.  He attained the self-esteem, self-reliance, discipline and confidence to produce positive results.