Melissa Viera, a Senior in the Culinary Arts program at Platt Tech, already has two years of experience in her field. That's because she has been working at Spring Meadows as part of the Work Based Learning program at Platt Tech. Spring Meadows is an independent and assisted living facility in Trumbull, Connecticut.

Melissa works in the food services department which provides healthy menu options to residents. She says that she really enjoys working at Spring Meadows. "I have learned a lot here. To me it is better than working in a regular restaurant because the menu changes regularly so it is always interesting."

Melissa also says that her training at Platt Tech prepared her for working at Spring Meadows. "I received a very strong foundation in food services at Platt Tech and here I am enhancing my skills in a real world situation." Head Chef Alvaro Genovesi said that he has been very impressed with Melissa's abilities. "I have worked with many people trained at the best culinary institutes and Melissa's work is comparable with theirs."

Melissa says that she plans to continue working at Spring Meadows after graduating Platt Tech. She also plans to attend Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven to study business. "I would like to run my own business in food services, and this is definitely giving me a head start."