Students Arianna Joy Song Song and Gianna Aquino received honorable mention and scholarships at the Monroe College event, while classmate Julie Velasquez took home the first prize trophy in the America’s Best High School Pastry Chef competition.

Passaic County Technical Institute’s (PCTI) Julie Velasquez of the School of Culinary Arts competed against high school students at Monroe College in New Rochelle, NY for the coveted title of America’s Best High School Pastry Chef. She took home the gold, earning the much sought-after title and the honor of receiving a full tuition scholarship for the AAS Baking and Pastry Arts Program at Monroe College!

Julie’s award winning dessert featured a delectable vanilla cake layered with strawberry mousse in a chocolate mold, served with raspberry mascarpone sherbet and a tuille.

In addition, PCTI Culinary Arts Students Gianna Aquino and Arianna Joy Song Song received Honorable Mention and $12,500 each in scholarships per year should they choose to attend the university.

Monroe College is dedicated to strengthening the culinary capabilities of high school students by providing high-quality educational experiences.