Difficult to master, baking is both an art and a science, and a passion for SUNY Broome’s newest Culinary Arts instructor, Victoria Monico.
When she’s not teaching Introduction to Baking at the new Culinary and Event Center, she’s creating all sorts of delectable creations as a pastry chef at Remlik’s Grille & Oyster Bar.
“Currently, I’m working on perfecting French macarons. Everyone loves them,” she said.
Born and raised in Binghamton, Monico graduated from Binghamton High School and then earned a degree in Culinary Arts from the esteemed Johnson & Wales University. After earning her degree, she traveled around the country for a time, honing her skills in the field before returning to her hometown. She has worked at Remlik’s for the past eight years.
While she has always loved cooking, baking was an interest she developed later on.
“Growing up and even in school, I really disliked baking and didn’t think I was good at it. But I had a particular instructor during my second year and it clicked with me, and I started enjoying it,” she said. “I like that it’s somewhat challenging, and there are so many different factors that go into it.”
As she watched the Culinary & Event Center take shape before its Jan. 27 opening, she knew she wanted to be a part of it, and contacted Dr. Rey Wojdat, chair of the college’s Hospitality programs.
“It’s nice to be part of a school that’s been in the community for so long,” she said of SUNY Broome. The CEC is also a standout facility, she added: “I love the old character of the building and the new technologies in the kitchen.”
The hospitality industry can be a tough career to pursue, requiring a commitment to excellence. But it’s deeply rewarding, too, for the culinary artists who would find themselves stymied by a desk job, and couldn’t imagine themselves anywhere other than a kitchen.
“If this is your passion, you should follow it,” Monico said.
Study with instructor Victoria Monico: Enroll in SUNY Broome’s Culinary Arts program!
Tags: Business and Professional Studies Division, Culinary Arts AOS
