There is no doubt that Schoolcraft’s Culinary Arts program can be challenging for many students enrolled in it. However, Sarah Maironis, Schoolcraft’s December Student Employee of the Month, pushes herself to explore, take on new challenges, and develop new skills every day on the job. 

Maironis, a Schoolcraft student since Fall 2025, says no day is the same; each day in the Program is a new chance of discovery. As she is assisting in the international culinary class, Maironis tries out many recipes. 

“My favorite part of the job is experiencing all sorts of dishes from different cultures,” says Maironis. Ironically, she tells how making scrambled eggs, arguably an easy dish to make, has allowed her to tackle new, complicated recipes within the Program.

“My dad taught me how to make eggs when I could barely look over the stove. I just always wanted to learn, get better, and try new things,” tells Maironis.

Her anecdote of how she is motivated to reach further goals, experience new opportunities, and make the most of her time in the Culinary Program has been inspired by one of her chefs, Chef Drew Sayes. 

“Chef Drew says all the time, what you get out of it, is what you put into it!” said Maironis. Just as Chef Drew tells students that they are driven to excel by the effort they put in, Maironis maximizes her time in the Program.

“I try to get involved in anything and everything so I can develop my skills further. I also try to watch other students so I can push myself in ways I have not yet done so I can work harder,” says Maironis.

Along with Chef Drew’s encouraging words, Maironis also cites owning a few Michelin stars as a key motivator in her pursuit of success in the Culinary Arts. To those who are unfamiliar, Michelin stars recognize a Chef or a restaurant’s quality in their food and hospitality. 

When she is not working, Maironis says she enjoys having her mornings to herself, which gives her a stress-free state of mind. The  Culinary Arts student of the month also likes to spend time with her friends, especially discovering vintage shops together. 

Regarding the future, Maironis says that after graduating from the Culinary Arts program in June 2027, she may pursue a degree in nutrition. However, what Maironis has settled on is her foreseeable future in New York City as a private chef, particularly in renowned restaurants.

That being said, Maironis credits Schoolcraft’s Culinary Arts program for setting her up for success in the hospitality industry. Without her hands-on training in each class, Maironis does not think she could be prepared for her next career in New York City. 

As the infamous author Jim Rohn has said, “Either you run the day or the day runs you.” Maironis represents the experimentation, courage, and motivation it takes to be a Culinary Arts student.

Congratulations to Sarah Maironis as December’s Student Employee of the Month.