When you watch a Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Culinary competition, you are sure to see people cooking or presenting their topics to a variety of judges. But what goes unnoticed is the months of preparation that goes into those projects.

FCCLA Culinary offers a variety of different events to compete in such as mystery baskets, culinary arts, baking and pastries, cake presentation, spotlight on projects, entrepreneurship and toys that teach. Every competition has a different way to prepare.

“All our competitions are different in so many ways and not all of them are culinary related,” president and junior Alexia Alonso said. “Depending on our competition, some of us need a planning sheet, some of us need a folder, some of us need a trifold, but specifically mine, all I need to do is just show up and do my task.”

While some competitions are pre-judged, others will be presented to judges during competitions.

“I’m excited to be in a competition I’m more excited and prepared for,” Vice President and senior Katalina Brunetti said. “Because last year I didn’t even go to the convention center, but this year I’m excited to actually compete in person and also do something I enjoy, which is cooking.”

This club is an opportunity for students to learn more than just how to cook it can also help students learn a lot about responsibility, leadership and problem-solving.

“Being the vice president has taught me a lot about managing people,” Brunetti said. “You need good organization and you want people to be interested and willing to do their responsibilities.”

The competitions are about more than just winning, it is a chance to bond with peers and gain practical skills in the field of their choice.

“I’m looking forward to the experience,” Rahim said. “Like I’m sure competing will be fun, but I think what would be more fun would be the actual experience and going with my friends and seeing everyone do their best.”