Culinary Student Association

At the Academy of Culinary Arts (ACA), learning occurs both inside and outside the classroom. You can participate in the Culinary Student Association (CSA), which is dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the skills and professionalism of the Academy's training.

The CSA organizes educational trips including behind-the-scenes looks at some of the area's largest kitchens and recreational activities like ski trips and movie nights.

As a student at the ACA, you will also participate in several special events and competitions throughout the year that will allow you to show off your skills, including:

American Culinary Federation's Junior Chefs Competition
Atlantic Cape Community College Restaurant Gala
Chaîne des Rôtisseurs dinner
Internal/external competitions, such as Iron Student Chef competition and more
Community service activities

ACA students may also participate in College clubs, athletics and events.

European Excursions

Visiting another country first-hand, you can taste, smell, touch and see what's unique about the culture and cuisine. The optional European Excursion immerses you for a week in local flavor, with local and regional experts as your guides. Past trips have gone to Tuscany and Vienna.

During previous trips students have:

Attended the Marco Polo Study Abroad Program in Italy.
Explored the outdoor produce markets in Tuscany for local specialties.
Enjoyed gourmet dinners in Rome.
Attended hands-on cooking classes at a the leading Viennese culinary institute and at a world-famous restaurant.
Watched preparation of a famous Viennese pastry.
Visited Vienna's largest meat market, a leading Austrian brewery and a local vinegar maker.
Toured Vienna and heard the Vienna Orchestra in concert.