Student Chocolate Challenge

On Sunday, August 24th, ten advanced baking and pastry students from schools across the country competed for the chance to win prizes and recognition for their respective schools. Pastry Live is proud to announce that Nayeli Gallegos of the College of DuPage is the first place winner of the 2014 Student Chocolate Challenge. Showpieces were critiqued based on overall artistic appeal and creativity, as well as on the level and amount of technique shown.

While each competitor exhibited considerable creativity and talent, it was Nayeli Gallegos’ showpiece which was awarded the grand prize. Her showpiece, titled “Gastriflora Magnific” represented her own journey towards becoming a pastry chef and the trials she faced while creating her entry. The symbolism found in the piece, as well as the overall design aesthetic, impressed the judges considerably as it was on par with many showpieces seen from seasoned professionals. This high-degree of artistry in her work, along with the skillfulness of the piece, earned her the first place standing in the competition.

Second place went to Rachel Dau from the College of DuPage for her highly-technical showpiece titled “Earth, Fire, Water, Air.” Her aptly named design sought to represent these tumultuous elements through various techniques, demonstrating not only her chosen theme, but also her masterful skill in chocolate work. Markie Bain, also from the College of Dupage, was awarded third place for her equally skilled design, which explored the darker side of the organic world through the representation of “Queen Mab” from Shakespearean lore. Both students displayed an exceedingly advanced level of craftsmanship in each of their displays.

Also showing exceptional commitment and professionalism through their showpieces were competitors Nicki Bardet (Art Institute of Atlanta), Jasmin Nathan (Art Institute of Atlanta), Marlana Poling (Kendall College), Courtney Pottinger (Art Institute of Atlanta), Micah Pritchett (Kendall College), Thomas Richberg (Johnson & Wales University CLT) and Maya Shemolewitz (Johnson & Wales University). Each represented their respective schools well and should be tremendously proud of their accomplishments. Pastry Live wishes to congratulate each of the winners as well as thank all of the competitors for their determination, hard work and dedication.

In the Student Chocolate Challenge, this year’s entrants were asked to bring in and present pre-assembled chocolate showpieces. Showpieces were critiqued based on the overall artistic appeal and creativity of the finished work, as well as the amount of technique and skill displayed. The Student Chocolate Challenge offers students the opportunity to experience the world of competitions, while allowing schools to come together in a friendly, competitive environment.

For more details about Pastry Live and the Student Chocolate Challenge competition, please contact Event Producer Paul Bodrogi at chef@pastrylive.com or (678) 881-9490. Further information is also available on our website at www.pastrylive.com.

Photo by Nick Squires-Amoretti