The Chef and I have four kids. They range in age from 10 down to 3, and like all ’sons’ my eight year old has plans to grow up to be a Chef just like his dad. Now I do have to say, this is a noble ambition, one I’m happy to facilitate. But in this day and age, even with his college fund growing he won’t be able to meet this goal without seriously looking into Direct Student Loans. As much as we would like to take care of it for him, there are a couple of reasons that I think it’s important that they do it on their own to some extent. First off, when I was in college with my dad paying for it, I certainly didn’t take it as seriously as I should have. In fact, I’ve been looking at going back to school and getting my teaching certificate. That way if something were to happen to my husband, or even when my 3 year old is in school, I can get a job with the same hours that they have. I pulled up my old transcript and I was disgusted by just how much time and money I wasted when I was younger and far more immature than I am now! That’s why, even if it has to be done with student loans, I want my kids to share some of the expense of college.

Culinary school is a lot of work. It starts even before the summer vacation officially begins after you graduate. You go to school for most major holidays for two years straight. It’s a commitment and with our help, and the help of student loans–I’m sure it’s a goal he can achieve!